A recent study sheds light on the heightened mental health challenges faced by front-line workers compared to their office-based peers. Conducted by meQuilibrium, a digital platform focusing on workforce resilience, the research found that 61% of front-line workers are more prone to depression, and 33% are more likely to experience anxiety. Despite this increased risk, front-line workers are 30% less likely to seek professional mental health assistance than those in non-front-line roles, according to a survey of 1,138 workers in the United States.
The nature of front-line work, including direct interaction with customers, unpredictable schedules, limited paid leave, and reduced control over work duties, contributes significantly to elevated levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and secondary traumatic stress. Dr. Brad Smith, Chief Science Officer at meQuilibrium, highlights that front-line workers often lack awareness of available well-being resources and face difficulties in accessing these services due to their irregular working hours.
Addressing this discrepancy is crucial for employers, as there’s a strong link between mental health and employee performance. Enhancing awareness and providing education on mental well-being resources can foster a healthier, more productive work environment across various sectors such as transportation, healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality.
The findings come against the backdrop of a challenging year for worker mental health, with numerous reports indicating a significant rise in mental health issues among employees. The Business Group on Health’s survey revealed a considerable increase in mental health problems among employees, with 76% of employers noting a rise in conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse in 2023, up from 44% in 2022. Workload, poor communication, inadequate work-life balance, and extensive meeting hours have been identified as major contributors to mental health decline.
Despite the availability of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), their utilization remains low, partly due to stigma and a lack of awareness about the benefits they offer. Educating employees, especially during the onboarding process, about EAPs and their benefits could improve this situation.
Interestingly, the study also finds that front-line workers have developed a higher level of resilience compared to their non-front-line counterparts, showcasing a silver lining in the face of adversity. This resilience acts as a buffer against burnout, underscoring the importance of supporting mental health in the workplace. By prioritizing mental well-being support and access, organizations can help bridge the gap between the needs of their front-line employees and the resources available to them, ensuring a more resilient and productive workforce.
