The importance of Workplace Wellbeing
Globally, workplace wellbeing is increasingly recognised as a priority by organisations, with employees expecting greater support for their health and wellbeing. In Ireland, this focus continues to grow as we move into 2025, with employers acknowledging its critical role in driving productivity, innovation, and growth.
Mental wellbeing, however, remains at a post-pandemic low worldwide, with no signs of recovery. This was highlighted in the Mental State of the World Report 2024 5 and reinforced by our Health of the Nation Report 3, where poor mental health and a lack of social connection emerged as key challenges.
The workplace plays a pivotal role in addressing these issues, presenting a unique opportunity to cultivate a happier, healthier, and more resilient workforce. Drawing on our research and insights from our wellbeing experts, we examine four key trends that will shape workplace health and wellbeing in 2025 and beyond.
Trend 1: Mental Health Decline and the increased need for mental health support in the workplace
The data clearly shows that poor mental health is one of the most pressing issues facing workplaces today. Findings from our Health of the Nation Report 3 reveal that 1 in 4 adults experience stress, depression, or anxiety more than half the time. Young employees are struggling—those under thirty-five have seen a 15% increase in severe distress since 2022, highlighting a growing need for targeted mental health support and tools.
Despite this, only 37% of managers feel they are adequately equipped to address the mental health needs of their teams. This gap underscores the importance of training programs like mental health first aid, which are helping to equip and empower managers with the tools to recognise and support colleagues in distress. Such measures are vital in fostering a supportive workplace environment that prioritises mental wellbeing.
Trend 2: Spotlight on Gen Z
Gen Z, currently aged 16-35, makes up nearly 30% of the workforce and is expected to become the largest working group by 2035. However, they face significant challenges, findings from our Health of the Nation Report reveal a 10-point decline in their National Health Score (480 in 2024 vs. 490 in 2023), with 3 in 5 reporting feelings of loneliness. There has also been a 15% rise in severe distress since 2022, highlighting a critical need for support.
Employers are increasingly requesting training in soft skills and solutions to address mental health, motivation, behaviour change, and social skills development. These efforts aim to build resilience and better equip this generation to succeed at work. To support Gen Z effectively, organisations must focus on strengthening social connections and promoting better social health at work. By addressing these challenges, we can help them thrive as today’s contributors and tomorrow’s business leaders.
Trend 3: Rising Substance Use and Addictions
Substance use and addictive behaviours are becoming increasingly prevalent, posing challenges for both individuals and organisations. According to our Health of the Nation Report, 33% of adults want to reduce their dependence on gambling, social media, gaming, alcohol, or other substances. Smoking and vaping have also seen a noticeable rise, with 27% of adults engaging in these habits—a trend particularly driven by those under thirty-five.
These patterns highlight a pressing need for workplaces to address substance dependency as part of their health and wellbeing programmes. Addiction and dependency, whether related to substances or behaviours like social media use, can impact focus, productivity, and overall mental health, making it an important area for employers to tackle.
Trend 4: Neurodiversity Awareness
Over the past decade, awareness of neurodiversity in the workplace has grown, and for good reason. With an estimated 15-20% of the workforce being neurodivergent, chances are we either identify as neurodivergent ourselves or work closely with someone who does.
To create truly inclusive workplaces, it’s important to provide the right support for neurodiverse employees, from accessible resources to open support channels. It’s also key to equip managers and colleagues with the skills to reduce bias, understand different ways of thinking, and collaborate effectively with neurodiverse teammates.
We’re seeing a real appetite from companies wanting to learn more about neurodiversity and how they can help their employees succeed. In response we’ve developed practical programmes to help employees and managers embrace neurodiversity and make workplaces better for everyone.
Prioritising Workplace Wellbeing in 2025
The trends outlined highlight the need to support employee health and wellbeing as we move into 2025. By addressing challenges, we can create workplaces where people feel valued, supported, and able to thrive.
If you’d like to explore how we can support your workplace wellbeing strategy, get in touch.