TELUS Mental Health Index spotlights connection of physical and mental health
When it comes to workplace productivity and well-being, the link between physical health and mental health is undeniable. Paula Allen, vice president and global leader of research and insights at TELUS Health, says their latest report focuses on this connection: "Physical activity, good nutrition, and mental health are all intertwined. The brain is part of your body, so healthier physical habits can help build resilience," she says.
The latest TELUS Mental Health Index reveals striking insights into how lifestyle factors impact the mental health of Canadian workers. The survey, conducted among 3,000 employed adults in Canada, finds that physically active workers lose 10 fewer workdays annually compared to their sedentary counterparts. Allen explains that movement doesn’t have to mean intense workouts. "It doesn’t need to be CrossFit every day, but moving and ensuring your body isn’t as sedentary as many of us are can make a big difference," she notes.
While physical health is crucial, the report also uncovers critical disparities in how different groups experience the healthcare system. Women, for instance, are 40% more likely than men to report negative experiences. Allen highlights that this goes beyond mere frequency of interactions.
"Even when women seek healthcare for themselves or on behalf of others, they often feel unheard or inadequately supported," she remarks. Pointing to conditions like endometriosis, which can take years to diagnose, Allen stresses the need for greater health equity. "We need more education around women’s health issues for both healthcare practitioners and women themselves," she adds.
The report also examines employer support for physical well-being. Those with access to wellness programs report better mental health and higher productivity. "When employers foster a culture of self-care, it sends a message that they value you as a person," Allen says. This care, in turn, influences employees' views of their workplace and boosts their motivation.
"If you feel like a cog in a wheel, it impacts not just how you perceive your employer but also your own productivity," she emphasizes. Moreover, employer-led wellness programs—from virtual fitness classes to community challenges—can encourage healthier behaviors, benefiting both employees and businesses.
As Allen explains, employers have a unique influence on health habits, and this influence has tangible outcomes. "Health has to be seen holistically," she says, stressing that physical and mental health are deeply interconnected. "Investing in both areas improves employees' quality of life and benefits employers through increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. It's the clearest win-win."
For companies looking to boost productivity, the message from TELUS Health is clear: Supporting employee well-being, both mentally and physically, is an investment worth making.
