In today’s fast-paced work environment, flexibility has become more than just a perk—it’s a necessity. According to a recent report from Telus Health’s mental-health index, a striking 70 percent of Canadian workers view flexibility as a crucial factor in their job satisfaction. This highlights an evolving workplace dynamic where the ability to tailor one’s work schedule and location is no longer a luxury, but a key driver of overall well-being.
The Link Between Flexibility and Mental Health
The Telus Health study revealed that while the average mental-health score for Canadian workers remained steady at 63.9, a significant portion—34 percent—of employees are at high risk for poor mental health. Notably, the research underscored the impact of workplace flexibility on mental health. Workers who reported having little to no flexibility in their roles had a mental-health score of 61.3, nearly three points below the national average.
The message is clear: lack of flexibility can contribute to a decline in mental well-being. On the flip side, employees who have control over their work arrangements, particularly those in hybrid settings, tend to fare better. A majority of these hybrid workers expressed satisfaction with their work setup, and their average mental-health score of 68.2 surpassed the national average.
This data reinforces what we’ve long recognized—the connection between flexible work arrangements and improved mental health is undeniable. By helping businesses design benefit plans that prioritize flexibility, we can support a healthier, more satisfied workforce.
What Workers Want: Flexibility, Balance, and Well-being
The report also delved into what Canadian workers value most in their job roles. Flexibility topped the list, with nearly a third of hybrid workers indicating that either flexible scheduling (31 percent) or the ability to work remotely as needed (30 percent) would most enhance their work experience. Younger employees, particularly those under 40, expressed a greater likelihood of dissatisfaction in hybrid roles, signaling a potential need for more adaptable work environments for this demographic.
Commuting was another significant concern. More than half of the respondents (58 percent) expressed a desire to avoid onsite work due to the time and cost associated with commuting. This preference underscores the broader trend of workers seeking to reclaim time and reduce stress by minimizing unnecessary travel.
When asked about what supports their well-being at work, 40 percent of respondents cited work-life balance as the most critical factor. Other key contributors to well-being included access to health benefits (18 percent), having a sense of purpose (13 percent), and a positive workplace culture (11 percent). These findings emphasize the multifaceted nature of job satisfaction, where flexibility, health benefits, and a supportive environment all play essential roles.
In our role, we understand that meeting these needs requires more than just offering a standard benefits package. It involves crafting tailored solutions that incorporate flexibility, health, and well-being into the very fabric of an organization’s culture.
Mental Health and Workplace Concerns: Weight and Well-being
The study also touched on the sensitive topic of weight concerns among employees. Nearly half of the workers who expressed concern about their weight had a mental-health score of 58.4, which is lower than the national average. Interestingly, women were 50 percent more likely than men to be concerned about their weight, highlighting a gender disparity in how workplace health issues are experienced.
Addressing these concerns requires a comprehensive approach to employee benefits, one that includes mental health support, wellness initiatives, and flexible work options that reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. This is where our expertise as advisors truly comes into play, as we work to integrate these elements into benefits plans that make a real difference.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Flexibility for a Healthier Workforce
As the data from Telus Health’s report suggests, workplace flexibility is not just a trend—it’s a fundamental aspect of job satisfaction and mental health. Companies that prioritize flexible work arrangements, promote work-life balance, and create supportive environments are more likely to foster a mentally healthy and engaged workforce. By partnering with an advisor who understands these dynamics, businesses can ensure their benefits offerings not only meet base requirements but also truly support their employees’ well-being.
As the workplace continues to evolve, embracing flexibility will be key to ensuring both employee well-being and organizational success.
Source: “70% of Canadian workers say flexibility key to job satisfaction: survey”, Benefits Canada.
