Men’s Risk of Depression Up 69%; PTSD Up 68%; General Anxiety Up 55%
Men’s Depression PTSD Anxiety-Until now, the Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition has shown women bearing the emotional brunt of COVID-19. However, brain assessments taken in August through October reveal a troubling new trend. Men’s mental health is declining, and is, in some cases, on par with or worse than that of women. Men’s risk of depression is up 69% (154% greater risk than in February); and risk of general anxiety is up 55% (66% greater risk than in February). Between September and October, risk of PTSD went up 68% (74% greater risk than in February). The data show men’s mental health risks are nearing levels not seen since the onset of the pandemic.
Additional noteworthy data among working men:
|
September to October |
· Focus declined 76% |
|
August to October |
· Stress levels climbed 20% · Negativity rose 12% |
The Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition, powered by Total Brain, a mental health and brain performance self-monitoring and self-care platform, is distributed in partnership with the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, One Mind at Work, and the HR Policy Association and its American Health Policy Institute.
According to Louis Gagnon, CEO, Total Brain, “Research suggests distinct gender differences in coping styles. When it comes to dealing with stress, men tend to focus on fixing problems, as opposed to women who try to change their internal response to stressors. A problem-focused approach is often successful, except when the source of the stress cannot be eliminated. We believe that given the robust resurgence of COVID-19, the Mental Health Index illustrates this concept quite eloquently.”
“The impact of the pandemic on mental health is starting to even out across the gender gap,” said Michael Thompson, National Alliance president, and CEO. “While men may have been less impacted environmentally over the last eight months, their passive approach to coping may be catching up with them as the pandemic endures.”
Garen Staglin, Chairman of One Mind at Work, commented, “Employers should see this latest data and understand that all of their employees – men and women alike – are suffering from the pandemic. Workplaces should use this uncertain time to start prioritizing employees’ mental wellbeing by providing critical support now while incorporating and maintaining best practices for workplaces that prioritize mental health and neurodiversity.”
Colleen McHugh, executive vice president of the American Health Policy Institute and strategic advisor for HR Policy Association said, “As we head into the holiday season, typically a more challenging time for many Americans, American Health Policy Institute member companies remain concerned about the mental health of their employees. These large employers are continuing to innovate new ways to support their employees and are also focusing on increased outreach and communications during this tough time. The new data released by the Mental Health Index show that such support is needed now more than ever.”
The full Mental Health Index results can be found here
