Gen-Z aren’t shy when it comes to making cultural or societal changes, in fact they’re quite proud to be changing the ways for not only themselves, but for future generations. From new terminology to attitudes and beliefs, Gen-Z are boldly standing up for their priorities which includes, but certainly not limited to, wellbeing and mental health support.
Gone are the times where mental health is kept quiet, overworking is great, and personal lives don’t take priority. There’s been a huge shift in attitudes, whereby wellbeing is something this generation actively seek out and where good work, life, balance is imperative.
Shifting Workplace Attitudes Towards Mental Health and Work-Life Balance
The tech-savvy and innovative generation have demonstrated that a good working culture and environment is actually an option and are keen to work for such employers. This means, workplaces will attract a lot more staff now, and in the future, if they invest in good wellbeing strategies and occupational health. Being able to proudly boast about great employee wellbeing, and strongly believing in support for mental health, will really drive recruitment.
Gen-Z’s Demand for a Healthy Work Environment and Mental Health Support
Rather than spending most of their days focussing on their careers, they’re opting for good work, life, balance and to work for organisations that align with their values and needs. This generation are focussing on raising awareness for mental health, but they’re also actively seeking support more than ever. Studies show that 63% said mental health and wellbeing care is the “number-one workplace benefit they want”.
The Importance of Holistic Wellness in the Workplace
They are also on the hunt for employers that support “holistic wellness” as mental health is more openly talked about and seen as important in this generation; this is worlds apart from millennials and our grandparent’s generations. Research found that 28% want benefits that help them cope with stress and with burnout levels on the rise and workplace sickness (most of which is due to poor mental health) costing the UK a staggering £100bn per year, is this really a bad thing?
Investing in employee wellbeing, both mental and physical, will attract more employees whilst also helping retention and overall reducing sickness levels and costs. It’s clear that Gen-Z’s vocalised priorities are actually beneficial for the workplace too.
Why Investing in Employee Wellbeing is Beneficial for All:
By improving employee morale, staff will feel more likely to stay with their employer for a much longer time as they’ll feel happy in their role. This keeps an organisation's workforce strong and reduces the costs it takes to hire people- it’s a lot more cost effective to keep staff and upskill. Additionally, it reduces the levels of absenteeism across the workplace as staff will be more engaged, productive, and present with positive mental wellbeing. Things like stress and burnout often leave staff feeling mentally ‘checked-out’ whilst at work. Moreover, the recruitment landscape is changing and wellbeing is at the forefront of priorities. Investing in wellbeing is becoming more and more important for recruitment success.
