Workers focused on health, wellbeing less likely to miss work: report

Worker’s desire to improve their health and wellbeing lead to fewer missed days at work, finds a report.

Overall, nearly seven in 10 (69%) workers report a high interest in improving their health and wellbeing, while just 5% report a low interest.

Notably, those who have little desire to get better physically tend to lose more days at work, according to a report from TELUS Health.

Source: TELUS Health

Currently, just over half (52%) of workers are satisfied with their physical health. And just about the same number (55%) of workers sometimes engage in physical activity. These do this for the following reasons:

• 27% report that maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight is their biggest motivator for participating in physical activity outside of work
• 21% report reducing the risk of disease/longevity is their biggest motivator
• 19% report improving physical fitness/stamina is their biggest motivator
• 12% report stress reduction is their biggest motivator

The link between the strength of our mind and the standard of our performance is irrefutable, according to Karen Gately, founder of Corporate Dojo.

What percentage of Canadians are inactive?

Still, many Canadians are spending far too much time being inactive, according to TELUS Health’s survey of 3,000 respondents conducted in September:

Source: TELUS Health

And those who spend a shorter time being inactive have a higher mental health score:

Source: TELUS Health

"Organizations can make a real difference by offering practical solutions like virtual fitness classes, on-site fitness amenities and engaging wellbeing challenges," says Matthew Chow, chief mental health officer, TELUS Health. "These initiatives create healthier, more engaged workforces while providing options to address the individuals to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the benefits of physical activity. Without these initiatives, many wouldn't take those crucial first steps towards positive change that ripple out to benefit their colleagues, families and communities."

Workers’ wellbeing is a high priority for employers this year, and they are improving their offerings to support employees, according to a previous Gallagher report.