Nearly half of Americans report greater stress sensitivity with pandemic

A recently published survey revealed that nearly half of American workers report they and their coworkers are more acutely aware of stress than they were before the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a company press release, LifeWorks Mental Health Index reported that 42% of U.S. citizens who felt more sensitive to stressors recorded a mental health score more than 10 points below the national average. In addition, 44% of American workers have seen their colleagues more attuned to stress than in pre-pandemic times.

“Persistent uncertainties in the economy and geopolitical arena continue to adversely impact Americans’ mental health, something that employers across every industry should recognize and keep in mind when providing resources and assistance,” Lifeworks CEO and President Stephen Liptrap said in the release.

Among other findings, the index score for April 2022 was -5.5, a drop from March’s score of -4.8 and the lowest since October 2021. Respondents aged younger than 40 years said they are 80% more likely to feel more sensitive to stress than pre-pandemic; 61% struggling with stress or their mental health are likely to reach out for professional help, compared to 24% who are unsure and 15% who are unlikely to seek treatment. In addition, Americans with a reduced salary or fewer hours are 60% more likely to feel sensitive to stress compared to before the pandemic.

“More than ever, people need to see their employer as a positive influence with respect to their mental health,” Liptrap said. Meaningful support, positive relationships and an overall culture that prioritizes employee wellbeing are key to achieving the balance necessary for the current workforce.”