Occupational Wellbeing

Research Shows Resilient Mental Health Post-Pandemic

March 28, 2023
Disha Shah
Research Shows Resilient Mental Health Post-Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended lives and disrupted the normal rhythm of society. It's no surprise that many people have been struggling with their mental health during these trying times. 

However, a recent study published in the peer-reviewed medical journal BMJ is shedding light on a surprising finding: in general, people's mental health has remained remarkably resilient despite the pandemic. 

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the findings of the study and explore what they mean for mental health surveillance and policy. 

So, buckle up and get ready to learn about the power of the human spirit and the resilience of our mental health during challenging times.

The Study

In the study published in BMJ, researchers assessed the impact of the pandemic on mental health by analyzing 137 studies from around the world. The findings challenge some of the commonly held assumptions about the pandemic's effects on well-being.

Breaking Down the Data

The study analyzed various mental health indicators, including general mental health, anxiety, and depression symptoms. The researchers compared outcomes assessed from January 2018 to December 2019 with those assessed from January 2020 and beyond, with a focus on any changes that may have occurred.

Contrary to Popular Belief

Contrary to what many people might believe, the report suggests that the pandemic's overall impact on mental health has been relatively minor. In fact, the vast majority of analyses showed no significant changes in general mental health, anxiety, or depression symptoms.

The Nuances of Mental Health

While there were some small negative changes in mental health among certain subgroups, such as women and parents, the overall picture painted by the data is one of resilience rather than crisis.

The Importance of Continued Monitoring

While the report's findings are encouraging, they are by no means a reason to become complacent. The pandemic's impact on mental health is a complex and evolving issue, and continued monitoring and support will be essential in the months and years to come.

A New Perspective

As a whole, this report challenges our assumptions about the pandemic's impact on mental health. It highlights the need not to underestimate the capacity of people to recover after a crisis. As HR professionals continue to navigate these unprecedented times, it is important to keep this new perspective in mind and to continue providing the support that employees need to thrive.

Implications for HRs

Research Shows Resilient Mental Health Post-Pandemic
Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, HR professionals have faced unprecedented challenges in maintaining the well-being of their workforce. 

The BMJ study's findings offer valuable insights for HRs looking to create a supportive and resilient workplace culture. Here are some key implications of the study that HRs should keep in mind to support the mental health of their workforce.

Prioritize Mental Health Support

While the study shows that most people have been resilient in terms of mental health during the pandemic, it's important to remember that certain groups, such as women, parents, and those in the LGBTQ+ community, experienced small to medium negative changes. 

HRs should prioritize providing mental health support to employees, especially those in vulnerable groups.

Foster a Resilient Workplace Culture

The study's findings also suggest that people are generally resilient in the face of adversity. HRs can foster a resilient workplace culture by providing resources and support for employees to cope with stress and challenges. 

Access to counseling services, mental health days, and flexible work arrangements are all examples of how this can be done.

Continue Mental Health Surveillance

The study highlights the need for continued mental health surveillance, especially during times of crisis. HRs should work with management and employees to monitor the mental health of the workforce and address any concerns in a timely manner. 

Employee check-ins, anonymous feedback mechanisms, and mental health training for managers can all contribute to this.

Closing Thoughts

The BMJ study provides a nuanced understanding of the impact of the pandemic on people's mental health. HR professionals can use this information to support their employees better and create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

At The Wellness Tribe, we understand the importance of creating a holistic approach to employee wellness, including mental health. Our corporate wellness solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of your organization and can help you promote a healthy and supportive work environment. 

If you need any assistance in implementing employee wellness programs or resources, don't hesitate to reach out to us today. Together, we can prioritize the mental health and well-being of your workforce.

Occupational Wellbeing

Corporate Wellness 2.0: Redefining workplaces with AI and ML

January 18, 2023
The Wellness Tribe Team
Take an in-depth look at how AI and machine learning are shaping the future of employee health and well-being to unlock the power of Corporate Wellness 2.0.

Corporate Wellness is no longer just about offering a gym membership and encouraging employees to take the stairs instead of the elevator. In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, companies recognize the need for a more holistic approach to employee health and well-being. 

Enter Corporate Wellness 2.0, a new era of workplace wellness that leverages the power of AI and machine learning to create personalized, data-driven programs that improve employee engagement and productivity. But what exactly is Corporate Wellness 2.0, and how is it changing the game?

From One-Size-Fits-All to Tailored

Today, Corporate Wellness programs have expanded to include a variety of initiatives that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These can include stress management, mental health support, financial wellness resources, and more traditional physical health and fitness programs. Companies are also beginning to recognize the importance of a culture of well-being and are implementing policies and practices that support employee health and well-being.

Despite the advancements in Corporate Wellness, traditional programs still have limitations.

For example, many programs are based on a one-size-fits-all approach and lack personalization. This is where Corporate Wellness 2.0 comes in. By leveraging the power of AI and machine learning, Corporate Wellness 2.0 can create tailored and personalized programs that cater to the unique needs of each employee.

Corporate Wellness is not a perk, it's a performance enhancement." -Maggie Jenkins

How AI and Machine Learning are Changing the Game

Take an in-depth look at how AI and machine learning are shaping the future of employee health and well-being to unlock the power of Corporate Wellness 2.0.
Image by creativeart on Freepik 

Personalized Progress

Corporate Wellness 2.0 harnesses the power of AI and machine learning to create personalized wellness tracking and goal-setting for employees. By gathering data on employee health and well-being, AI and machine learning can create customized plans for each individual, taking into account factors such as age, gender, health conditions, and lifestyle. This personalized approach ensures that employees are more likely to engage with the program and achieve their wellness goals.

Custom-Made for You

With the use of AI and machine learning, Corporate Wellness 2.0 can also create tailored plans for individual employees. The technology can analyze data on an employee's physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and stress levels and then provide personalized recommendations for how they can improve their health and well-being. This approach ensures that each employee receives a program that is specifically designed for their needs and goals.

Data-Driven Decisions

Another significant advantage of Corporate Wellness 2.0 is the ability to utilize data and analytics to track progress. By gathering data on employee health and well-being, companies can gain a deeper understanding of their employees' needs and monitor the effectiveness of their Corporate Wellness programs. This allows companies to make data-driven decisions and continuously improve their wellness offerings. 

AI-Powered Nutrition and Exercise

From Generic to Specific

Corporate Wellness 2.0 uses AI and machine learning to create customized nutrition and exercise plans for each employee. By analyzing data on factors such as physical activity levels, dietary habits, and health conditions, AI and machine learning can make personalized recommendations for how employees can improve their nutrition and exercise. This approach ensures that employees receive a program that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences, increasing the chances of engagement and success.

Optimizing Resources

By analyzing data on employee usage and engagement, companies can better understand which resources and services are most effective and make informed decisions on how to allocate resources. This can help companies make the most of their Corporate Wellness budget and ensure that employees have access to the resources and services they need to improve their health and well-being.

The ultimate support for mental health in the workplace

AI and Machine Learning: The ultimate support for mental health in the workplace
Photo by Kevin Ku on Unsplash

Mental Health Tailored to You

One of the most significant advantages of Corporate Wellness 2.0 is its ability to provide personalized mental health resources and techniques through the use of AI and machine learning. By analyzing data on employee stress levels, mood, and mental health conditions, AI and machine learning can provide individualized recommendations for mental health resources and techniques, such as meditation, therapy, and stress management. This personalized approach ensures that employees receive the support they need to improve their mental health and well-being.

Burnout Be Gone

In addition to providing personalized resources and techniques, AI and machine learning can also help companies detect and prevent burnout through the use of data and analytics. By monitoring employee stress levels, mood, and engagement, companies can detect early signs of burnout and take steps to prevent it before it becomes a significant issue. This can help companies create a culture of well-being and ensure that employees are able to maintain their health and productivity in the long term.

Closing Thoughts

Corporate Wellness 2.0 is ushering in a new era of workplace wellness, where technology and data take center stage. By harnessing the power of AI and machine learning, companies are able to create customized and personalized programs that cater to the unique needs of each employee. 

At The Wellness Tribe, we harness the power of AI and machine learning to create customized and personalized corporate wellness programs that cater to each employee's unique needs. Our approach is not just about getting healthy; it's about fostering a culture of well-being, attracting and retaining top talent, and driving business success. Join The Wellness Tribe on the journey to a brighter future for Corporate Wellness.

Personal Wellbeing

Retention - Attrition Spelt Backwards

December 5, 2022
The Wellness Tribe Team
Retention - Attrition Spelt Backwards

We are in the midst of layoff season. While the world is shocked to see large internet companies like Meta and Twitter fire employees, the Indian startup scene has also suffered. So, what led to this, what is happening now, and what is yet to come? 

Race to Mass Layoffs?

Adding to the difficulties in Silicon Valley is the possibility that Amazon will announce layoffs that will affect up to 10,000 workers. Following Microsoft, Twitter, Snap, Meta, and Twitter, Amazon is the next big tech company to lay off employees. There has also been a decrease in recruiting at Apple and other companies. 

In the wake of fears of a worldwide recession, technology companies, traditionally large spenders, are now turning to cost-cutting.

Mass Firings: What Led to This?

From January 1 to June 1, 2022, the market capitalization of the top 30 technology companies decreased by $4.3 trillion. These 30 companies represent the majority of the value of the global tech market.

At least $5–6 trillion was lost in the global listed tech market as a whole. The top 30 businesses account for $4.3 trillion of this. In actuality, the combined contribution of Apple and Microsoft to this market value decline is close to $1 trillion. 

From June to August 18, the market value of the top 30 tech companies experienced a $900 billion recovery.

What's the situation in India?

Many edtech companies have let go of employees, including Byju's and Unacademy. It was reported that Unacademy had laid off 1,150 employees, while Byju's laid off 550 employees, not far behind Vedantu, which had laid off 624 employees.

Meanwhile, MFine laid off 600 workers, Ola fired 500 people, and Cars24 reported 600 job losses. In all cases, layoffs were caused by tighter monetary policies and a correction in the stock market.

How About the Attrition Rate?

In addition to layoffs, IT organizations have experienced high attrition rates. Labor costs and the cost of acquiring talent led to squeezed operating margins for all IT majors during the previous quarter.

During the first quarter of FY23, Indian IT companies spent, on average, 57% of sales on employee salaries, with some, like Infosys, raising their top performers by one or two digits. TCS's attrition rate for Q4 of FY22 was 19.7%, much higher than Infosys's 17.4%.

In Q4FY22, HCL Technologies experienced an increase in attrition from 21.9% to 23.8%. However, Wipro has managed to keep attrition rates relatively stable, dropping from 23.8% to 23.3% between April and June.

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