Only half of Europeans say they work in psychologically healthy workplaces

Only a little over half of employees across Europe believe they work in psychologically healthy workplaces, according to a new poll from Great Place To Work [registration]. The research, which surveyed nearly 25,000 employees across 19 countries, highlights significant disparities between industries and regions, with the UK falling slightly below the European average. The authors argue that, while many organisations have recognised the importance of fostering mentally healthy workplaces, the survey suggests that progress remains slow.

Across Europe, 53 percent of employees report working in a psychologically healthy workplace. Northern European nations, including Norway, Denmark, and the Netherlands, lead the way, while Greece, Luxembourg, Poland, and Italy report some of the lowest levels of workplace wellbeing.

The UK sits just below the European average, with only 52 percent of workers describing their workplace as psychologically healthy. Experts say this highlights a need for employers to do more in supporting mental health at work, particularly given the direct link between workplace wellbeing and employee retention.

The study found that government and public sector employees report the lowest levels of psychological wellbeing at work. Just 48 percent of public sector workers said their workplace supported their mental health, compared to 55 percent in the private sector.

Experts suggest that high workloads, limited resources, and the emotional burden of working with complex social issues contribute to these low satisfaction levels. Mental health support in these workplaces is often inadequate, leaving employees without the resources they need to cope.

Similarly, employees in healthcare (47 percent), transport and logistics (50 percent), and retail (51 percent) also reported low levels of psychological health. In contrast, the technology sector (62 percent), real estate and development (57 percent), and professional services (57 percent) fared better.

The study also found a sharp divide in how different levels of employees perceive workplace psychological health. While 67 percent of senior leaders described their workplace as psychologically healthy, this figure dropped to 57 percent for mid-level managers and 51 percent for both frontline supervisors and non-management employees.

This discrepancy suggests that senior leadership may not always have a full picture of employee experiences, reinforcing the need for open dialogue across all levels of an organisation.

Workplace psychological health also plays a key role in employee retention. The study found that employees in psychologically healthy workplaces were six times more likely to want to stay with their employer and five times more likely to recommend their workplace to others.

This finding is particularly relevant in the UK, where the most common length of service is between two and five years, according to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). The study suggests that during this time, psychological health often declines, potentially leading to experienced workers leaving their jobs.

The study identified several factors that contribute to a psychologically healthy workplace. These include management showing genuine interest in employees, being open to feedback, involving staff in decision-making, and encouraging work-life balance. Fair pay, inclusivity, and a welcoming environment for new employees were also highlighted as essential elements of workplace wellbeing.

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