Asian Gen Zs are Facing Mental Health Issues in the Workplace – Study

July 7, 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the rise in mental health problems among young people. While mental health issues have always existed, there is indication that their prevalence and awareness have increased among young people.

Several factors contribute to the rise in mental health issues among young people, including academic pressure; self-image, particularly as perpetuated on social media, which fosters the constant need for validation; economic uncertainty, particularly with contracting purchasing power and job insecurity; and increased awareness and reduced stigma surrounding mental health issues, which has resulted in more young people seeking help. These variables, however, can differ among cultures, countries, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Survey: Majority of Gen Zs in Asia are “experiencing poor mental health”

A recent study by France-based insurance company Axa, Study of Mind Health and Wellbeing, which surveyed 30,000 respondents across east Asia, Europe, and the Americas, revealed the scope of mental health issues, particularly among GenZ respondents, and how these issues are affecting an important aspect of their lives – work and career.

Despite this finding, it has been shown that the generation could “work well under stress”. Asia-based Gen Z workers are dealing with a variety of stressors that are affecting their mental health and work well-being, including uncertainty about the future (69%), a sense that their skills and job don’t match (56%), and difficulty keeping up with “the pace of change at work” (47%), despite the fact that 42% believe they can be relied on to do their best work.

The AXA Study of Mind Health and Wellbeing 2023 polled 30,000 people in 16 countries and territories across Europe, Asia, and the Americas in September, October, and November 2022.

Aside from that, Gen Zs appear to have a stronger ability to work under stress, but they are also the most likely to resign. In Asia, less than half of working Gen Z (44%) believe they have job skills. According to the study, job-skill fit has a very significant association with mental wellbeing, and individuals who have the correct job skill fit are 2.5 times more likely to perform at their best.

Despite this, a bigger proportion of Gen Z (42%) in Asia believe that they can be relied on to achieve their best when compared to other age groups. Employers should be concerned, though, because Gen Z in Asia has the highest rate of employees who are likely to resign in the next 12 months (21%). Those in Gen Z who are doing well, on the other hand, are less inclined to resign, with a rate of only 16%. This emphasizes the need of positively encouraging positive mental health in employee retention.

When compared to the global average (1% YoY growth), Asia experienced the greatest increase (3% YoY) in those prospering. There is also a reported drop in stigma associated with mental health, with 36% of respondents globally strongly agreeing or agreeing stigma associated with mental health is reducing, compared to 31% last year. Overall, people in Asia are becoming more mentally healthy, with more flourishing (from 19% last year to 22% this year) and fewer struggling (from 14% last year to 12% this year).

Workplace mental health support is critical to overall mental health. Employers can make a significant contribution to mental health. According to Axa, organizations who give mental health care are 2.5 times more likely to have flourishing employees in Asia. Mind health support at the workplace has the largest impact on Gen Zs’ mental health.

9 tips to managing mental health in the workplace

Dealing with mental health issues is not easy, and especially if they are impacting one’s daily functioning. Nevertheless, there are strategies to cope and are worth trying out to deal with these challenges effectively.

. Self-awareness is essential for recognizing and comprehending your own mental health needs. Be aware of your emotions, stress levels, and triggers. Recognize signs of burnout, anxiety, or despair, and get help when necessary.

. Be open about discussing mental health with trustworthy colleagues, managers, or human resources personnel. Communicate your needs, concerns, and constraints. This can help to foster a positive work atmosphere and inspire others to understand and empathize with you.

. Make use of the resources at your disposal. Staff programs are available at many companies and provide counseling and support services. If these perks are available, take use of them. Consider seeking treatment or counseling from mental health providers outside of the workplace.

. Make self-care a priority in order to maintain your mental health. Exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones are all things that might help you relax and rejuvenate. To avoid burnout, set boundaries between work and personal life.

. Manage your time and workload effectively to reduce stress. Set realistic goals, prioritize chores, and break them down into smaller, doable steps. When feasible, delegate jobs and discuss with your supervisor about your workload if it becomes too much.

. It may sound cliche, but it is important that you aim for a healthy work-life balance by setting boundaries. Disconnect from work during non-work hours and take regular rest and recharge breaks throughout the day. Engage in activities that bring you joy and contentment outside of work.

. Invest in your own personal and professional growth. Seek for possibilities for learning, skill development, and advancement in your field. This can boost your workplace confidence, satisfaction, and overall well-being.

. Assist fellow Gen Zs who are in the same situation as you. Helping others is also gratifying. Promote mental health awareness and support in your workplace. Share your experiences and suggestions with management or HR to help drive positive changes and build a more mentally healthy work environment for all employees.

. Consider obtaining professional help from a mental health specialist if your mental health difficulties persist or worsen.

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