According to a survey by Pie Insurance, the most common injuries experienced by workers at U.S. small businesses were mental health-related (22%), followed by slips, trips and falls (20%) and cuts, lacerations and punctures (18%).
Given the prevalence of mental health-related injuries, it is perhaps no surprise that 32% of employees cited mental health as their primary workplace safety worry, surpassing traditional concerns like physical injury (20%), environmental hazards (9%) or equipment safety (4%). However, while 91% of employers were confident in their ability to address mental health issues, only 62% of employees shared that confidence in their employers.
The impact of mental health extends beyond the workplace as 36% of employees reported that workplace stress and safety concerns affect their personal lives, leading to burnout, depression and physical symptoms. Almost three-quarters of employees (73%) said employer support would make a meaningful difference, citing flexible or remote work options, mental health day allowances, counseling services, and mental health awareness and safety training as possible solutions.