55% of Singapore workers lack trusted workplace relationships, heightening isolation: Study

Over half of workers (55%) lack reliable workplace connections, resulting in feelings of isolation and loneliness. Additionally, nearly half (45%) of employees do not perceive or are uncertain about their workplace's commitment to fostering an environment where employees feel safe to voice concerns without fear of reprisal or embarrassment. 

TELUS Health unveiled its TELUS Mental Health Index, featuring reports on the mental well-being of employed individuals across several countries including Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Europe. 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially classified loneliness as a significant global threat, acknowledging its detrimental effects on health. Isolation and loneliness are now being equated to well-known health risks like smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity. 

In fact, the US surgeon general has likened its mortality impact to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. “Loneliness is not just a personal struggle, but a global threat to our mental health and wellbeing,” said Haider Amir, Director, Asia at TELUS Health. “When workers experience isolation and loneliness, the effects ripple through the workplace. Without reliable connections and a supportive environment where individuals can authentically express themselves, challenges inevitably arise. It is imperative to proactively address the detrimental effects of isolation and loneliness on employee health and productivity, as doing so not only enhances wellbeing but also yields financial benefits for employers.”

The TELUS Mental Health Index uncovered additional insights

• One out of ten workers in Singapore feel undervalued and disrespected by their colleagues, making them 60% more likely to report that their mental health negatively impacts their productivity at work.
• Workers under the age of 40 are 80% more likely than those over 50 to lack trusted personal relationships.
• Nearly half of the workers indicate uncertainty or lack of support from their employer regarding psychological health and safety.
• Forty-one percent are unsure if harassment, bullying, or unhealthy conflicts are swiftly and fairly addressed in their workplace.

Furthermore, in January 2024, the mental health scores for workers across different regions were as follows:

• Singapore: 62.6
• Australia: 63.1
• New Zealand: 59.6
• United Kingdom: 64.7
• Europe: 62.0
• United States: 70.7
• Canada: 63.5

The TELUS Mental Health Index utilises a response scoring system, which translates individual responses into point values. Higher point values indicate better mental health and reduced mental health risks. 

Scores ranging from 0 to 49 indicate distress levels, scores between 50 to 79 denote strain levels, and scores from 80 to 100 signify optimal mental health. Paula Allen, Global Leader of Research & Client Insights at TELUS Health, remarked on the findings of the Index, emphasising the concerning reality, particularly for younger workers. 

She highlighted the impact of rapid societal changes and diminishing social support, which are contributing to increased stress levels. Additionally, challenges such as inflation, housing affordability, and job insecurity pose significant stressors, especially for individuals at the early stages of their careers when financial stability may be limited. 

Allen suggests that organisations can play a vital role in addressing these challenges by fostering a culture of trust, which helps combat feelings of isolation, and by promoting awareness of health, personal, and financial support programs that offer essential assistance to employees.