New Research reveals Gen Z Taking More Sick Leaves than Gen Xers Due To Mental Health Crisis

New Research suggests Gen Z is more likely to call in sick to work than Gen Xers

In an era where awareness about mental health is increasing, especially in the post-COVID period, recent research has revealed that the mental health crisis is posing a more challenging struggle for the younger generation.

Contrary to historical wellness trends, young individuals in the U.K. are now surpassing their senior counterparts from Generation X, who are two decades older, in taking sick leaves. This shift is attributed to a notable increase in the number of young people reporting mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

According to a study conducted by the Resolution Foundation (RF), the growing mental health crisis is significantly impacting the career prospects of Generation Z employees. Over one-third of individuals aged 18 to 24 are reported to have a "common mental disorder" (CMD), including conditions like bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety. This percentage is markedly higher than the 24% reported in 2000.

The surge is notably fueled by a mental health crisis among women. Compared to 25% of men, 40% of women in the UK are likely to report having a CMD.

Various factors theoretically explain this increase, including the reduction of essential public services or the diminishing stigma associated with discussing mental health. However, the practical consequences of the rise in poor mental health cases are evident.

The analysis indicates that over the past decade, the proportion of young people missing work due to illness has doubled. This, in turn, is affecting work outcomes, as individuals facing mental health challenges are more inclined to be employed in lower-paying positions.

Policymakers are particularly concerned about the unprecedented generational dynamics this trend is creating. Younger individuals are now more likely to miss work due to illness compared to those 20 years older, leading to divisions in the workplace that adversely impact productivity.

A study by the London School of Economics and consulting firm Protiviti found that over 33% of Gen Z workers perceived themselves as unproductive, with a breakdown in communication between younger employees and their more senior managers identified as the root cause.

Source: India Times