Conducted in collaboration with global market research firm IPSOS, the study highlights a growing concern over work-related stress among younger employees, while also noting that mental health remains stigmatized and overlooked in the country.
The report reveals that 48 percent of employees aged 18-24 and 42 percent of those aged 25-34 are grappling with mental health challenges, emphasizing the critical need for companies to prioritize employee well-being.
Additionally, 83 percent of respondents indicated that access to mental health support is a key factor in their decision to stay with their employer, underscoring the importance of robust mental health programs in the workplace.
Among the suggested solutions, 43 percent of employees highlighted the importance of access to mental health professionals, while 38 percent called for mental health coverage in their medical policies.
To combat this growing challenge, AXA Philippines suggests five key strategies to improve workplace well-being:
Prioritize mental health: Offer resources like counseling services and promote mental health initiatives.
Foster open communication: Encourage regular check-ins and feedback sessions to create a supportive environment.
Promote work-life balance: Offer flexible working hours and mental health days to reduce burnout.
Raise mental health awareness: Provide workshops and training on managing stress and building emotional resilience.
Cultivate an inclusive workplace: Build a positive company culture that emphasizes teamwork, diversity, and recognition.
Through mental health company Mind You, AXA Philippines offers healthcare and critical illness plans that cover mental health counseling by licensed psychologists.
Rea Villa, senior psychologist of Mind You, emphasized: "Initiatives like these not only provide immediate relief from stress but also play a crucial role in building psychological resilience over time. Regular access to counseling and mindfulness practices can significantly reduce the risk of long-term mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, by equipping individuals with coping mechanisms and promoting emotional regulation.”
By investing in their employees' mental well-being, companies can foster resilience and reduce the risk of long-term psychological issues.
