How to improve wellbeing through the use of data

Utilising data can enhance business leaders’ decisions in building practical wellbeing solutions in-house.

Workplace mental health platform Unmind has released its 2023 Workplace Mental Health Trends, highlighting the importance of data in shaping wellbeing solutions.

According to World Health Organisation (WHO) data referenced by Unmind, mental health costs the global economy US$1 trillion each year.

In Australia, the Productivity Commission estimates that mental ill health costs $200 to $220 billion per year.

Unmind noted that while we are making progress scientifically and socially on the issue of mental health, there is still a significant amount of work to be done from a business level.

“We’re better placed to tackle this challenge now than ever before. We can offer a full spectrum of support, from preventative to reactive, delivered at the right time, tailored to the individual,” said Unmind co-founder and chief executive Dr Nick Taylor.

“Too often, wellbeing strategies – at work, and in public health – spring into action only once the person is already in crisis. Meanwhile, many of the tools available to the workplace lack the scientific grounding needed to deliver ethical and effective care.”

There are methods to dealing with wellbeing in the workplace that are more effective than others. According to the report, 96 per cent of HR leaders believe scientific and evidence-based research are important for creating wellbeing solutions.

However, Unmind said that just 5 per cent of “mental health apps are backed by credible studies”, highlighting a disconnect.

Employers could see more effective change if utilising research, data and statistics in wellbeing strategy.

“Wellbeing solutions should come under scrutiny. It is not a one-size-fits-all training programme or wellness initiative. It is an entire safety system with promotion, protection and response factors that formulate a psychosocially and psychologically safe workplace,” said Anna Feringa, workplace mental health consultant and director at Anna Feringa Consulting.

Bringing data into the strategy could help ease problems. Leadership seems to agree, with Unmind finding that 75 per cent of HR leaders believe that measuring wellbeing is a top priority for their business in 2023.

This can be achieved through surveys. By providing wellbeing assessments, you are able to take advantage of almost instant data that will help to identify issues and shape policy to deal with any mental health issues in the workplace.

Dr Taylor continued: “Few people have a greater opportunity to make a difference than leaders of large companies. But you can’t truly embed psychological safety without leaders onboard.”

“This year’s trends are a call to action for those setting the agenda inside their organisations. Those who can use workplace tech and innovative strategies to democratise wellbeing and offer high-quality support at scale. The people who can drive real cultural change.” 

To read Unmind’s full 2023 Workplace Mental Health Trends report, click here.