The Risk Landscape Is Hurting Employees' Health

Morgan O'Rourke

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January 16, 2025

Whether due to natural disasters, extreme weather, disease epidemics, or geopolitical and economic instability, the risk landscape has rarely felt more chaotic. In fact, according to International SOS’s Risk Outlook 2025, 65% of senior risk professionals surveyed perceive that risks have increased in the past year. This volatility is taking a toll on people’s health and wellbeing.

Respondents believe that, as a result, several key issues will have a significant impact on their business and workforce, including stress and burnout (78%), the impact of the cost-of-living crisis (75%), mental health conditions (70%), and political stress and anxiety (65%). Organizations will need to address these issues to protect their workforce.

“Creating a healthy workplace includes protecting and promoting mental health, which will not only help employees weather these stresses but also drive higher engagement, productivity and retention—essential for navigating a rapidly changing world,” said Dr. Irene Lai, global medical director at International SOS.

Morgan O’Rourke is editor in chief of Risk Management and senior director of content and publications for the Risk & Insurance Management Society, Inc. (RIMS)