Mental health worse now than at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic

Currently, more workers are at high risk of mental health problems than at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed the November 2023 Mental Health Index report, published at the end of the year by TELUS Health. The index is based on a monthly survey of 3,000 people. 

At 63.1, the mental health score for workers recorded by the index in November represents a significant decline from the score of 63.7 recorded in October 2023. 

The index thus continues its decline for the fourth consecutive month, after reaching a peak of 65.2 in July 2023. However, it should be noted that the index's highest peaks have been recorded in the summer period since its inception in April 2020. 

At 3.1, the November score is barely higher than the 3.0 recorded in April 2020, the first month for which Lifeworks (since acquired by TELUS Health) published the index results. 

The November index survey reveals that 36% of workers are at high risk of mental health problems, and 42% are at risk. Only 23% represent a low risk. 

Secondary Scores on the Decline 

TELUS Health specifies in its Mental Health Index report that all secondary scores of the Mental Health Index decreased between October and November. Anxiety and isolation remain the lowest secondary scores for the 19th consecutive month. 

Only the Mental Health Index's secondary score for productivity did not suffer the same fate.

Between October and November 2023, mental health scores improved in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Maritimes, while they decreased or remained stable in other provinces. 

Managers and Workers Affected 

The mental health scores of managers and non-managers continue to decline. In contrast, blue-collar workers display a lower mental health score compared to service sector workers and office workers. 

At press time, the December 2023 report had not yet been published. 

The Congrès Collectif 2024, organized by the Insurance Journal Publishing Group, will give special attention to mental health. The event will be presented in French, on February 20, 2024, at the Palais des Congrès de Montréal.