Workplace Stress and Anger Cost Global Economy $8.9 Trillion

Workplace stress and negative emotions are having a significant impact on the global economy, costing an estimated $8.9 trillion in lost productivity and disengagement. According to the latest report from Gallup, a staggering 9% of global GDP is affected by the adverse emotional experiences of workers.

The Gallup's State of the Global Workforce report surveyed 128,278 employees across 140 countries, revealing a concerning trend of daily negative experiences among workers. The report indicates that 20% of employees encounter feelings of loneliness, sadness, and anger at work every day, while 41% report experiencing daily stress.

Key Findings

Impact on Young Workers and Remote Employees

The survey highlights that young workers are particularly vulnerable to negative emotions at work, with 22% of them experiencing loneliness. Additionally, 25% of full-time remote workers also report feeling lonely, indicating that remote work might exacerbate feelings of isolation. Among those who feel disconnected from their work, 31% also experience loneliness.

Negative Emotions and Employee Engagement

Negative emotions in the workplace don't solely stem from the nature of the work itself. Employers play a crucial role in shaping the emotional landscape of their employees. The report emphasizes the importance of meaningful work and positive work relationships in enhancing employee well-being. When employees find their work and relationships meaningful, their happiness at work increases, and the prevalence of negative emotions decreases.

Economic Consequences of Disengagement

The report draws a stark comparison between disengagement and unemployment, suggesting that disengagement can be equally, if not more, detrimental. Employees who do not find joy in their work often perceive it as a burden, leading to unbearable workloads and the development of harmful emotions such as anger and loneliness. The stress associated with disengagement can have significant repercussions on both mental and physical health.

Regional Variations

The survey also uncovers regional differences in employee engagement and well-being. The United States and Canada boast the highest unionization rates at 33%, yet they also report high daily stress levels at 49%. In contrast, workers in Eurasia experience the least stress, with only 19% reporting daily stress.

Role of Managers in Employee Well-being

The report underscores the critical role managers play in fostering employee engagement. Organizations that prioritize employee welfare and invest in managerial development see higher levels of employee cohesion. In these organizations, three out of four managers and seven out of ten employees feel a strong sense of connection to their work.

For more insights on enhancing workplace well-being, visit our Business and Economy section.