Employees struggle with Covid PTSD

While it looks like the worst of the pandemic is behind us, employers are still struggling to deal with a workforce that is still trying to process the last year and a half. The latest Mental Health Index by Total Brain and the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions reports that the risk for PTSD has increased month over month and is now 53% higher than pre-pandemic rates. The index found that nearly a fifth of employees were at risk for developing PTSD. Employees who have PTSD also have a higher chance of developing other mental health issues and can also lose their focus on cognitive tasks. 

Louis Gagnon, CEO of Total Brain said in a release, "Workers" focus is being hijacked by intense fear and trauma. It is critically important that employers are prepared to address trauma in the workplace, including understanding their role in exacerbating trauma and their power to help alleviate workers’ overwhelming anxiety.” Another report also found that 100% of workers have stress around returning to work. The fear of contracting covid, the lack of flexibility, and added commute, and unavailability of childcare are all factors adding to this stress. 

Source: Benefit News