Shocking Work Life Balance Statistics You Need to Know
Do you find yourself constantly attached to your work even during your supposed downtime? Are you unable to switch off from the demands of your job? If you think you’re alone in this, think again. A study conducted by Gallup found that nearly half of the employees they surveyed report working for more than 50 hours per week. In fact, 23 percent of them reported working more than 60 hours per week! While it’s easy to assume that this is an issue that only applies to those working in more high-pressure industries, such as finance or law, this is not the case. Work-life balance is a pervasive problem that affects people from all walks of life. In this article, we’ll take a look at some shocking statistics on work-life balance that will make you sit up and take notice.
The State of Work Life Balance
According to a survey conducted by the Harvard Business Review, workers feel overwhelmed with the amount of work they have to do, leading to increased levels of stress that can negatively impact their mental and physical well-being. In addition, a study by the American Institute of Stress found that inadequate work-life balance resulted in a decrease in turnover and absenteeism. Employees who fail to find the right balance may experience burnout, which can manifest in a number of negative ways.
The Effect on Mental Health
One of the most concerning impacts of poor work-life balance is its effect on mental health. According to a survey by the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy $1 trillion every year in lost productivity. In fact, one in four employees has been diagnosed with a mental health disorder while at work, with 62 percent of those stating that it negatively impacted their work.
The Effect on Physical Health
It isn’t just our mental well-being that takes a hit when work-life balance is out of sync. Physical health can also be negatively impacted. According to a report by the International Labour Organization, work-related stress accounts for more than half of all work-related illnesses. This means that employers are compelled to ensure that their employees have the right balance, not just for the sake of their mental health, but for their physical well-being as well.
Employers Must Take Responsibility
If these statistics shock you, then you’re not alone. Employers have a responsibility to ensure that their employees are not overworked, and that they receive the support necessary to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Flexible working arrangements, counselling services, and wellness programs are some of the ways in which companies can assist their employees in achieving the balance necessary for a healthy and fulfilling life outside of work.
The Bottom Line
It is clear that taking care of your work-life balance is essential for both your mental and physical health. Employers must do their part in ensuring a healthy balance while employees must strive to set boundaries and create a separation between work and life. As the saying goes, ‘work to live, not live to work’.
In conclusion, the statistics on poor work-life balance are alarming, and they should serve as a wake-up call to both employers and employees alike. A healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being, and it’s something we should all strive to achieve.
