Nearly 1.7 million British Gen Z workers, or 30 per cent, were signed off for mental health reasons in 2024, as the government pushes to get young people into work.
According to research from Unmind, Gen Z is experiencing an increase in mental health-related work absences, with nearly a third of young workers signed off sick in the past year, amounting to 1.7 million individuals. The UK’s economic inactivity rate for 16–24-year-olds increased from 39 per cent in 2019 to 41.2 per cent in 2023 for the same time frame.
Workplace issues accounted for 80 per cent of the 5.3 million workers, or 16 per cent of the UK workforce, who were called off sick for mental health reasons in 2024. About 20 per cent said they felt punished for missing work, and another 20 per cent said their employer disregarded their requests for accommodations after they returned.
Furthermore, 19 per cent of respondents say they are uncomfortable asking for mental health leave; this percentage rises to 26 per cent for women and 27 per cent for people over 55. Only 41 per cent of workers are aware that many organisations have Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), and Gen Z is the most proactive in using them (63 per cent).
According to research, 35 per cent of employees rank flexibility as their top priority and seek workplace support beyond EAPs. Independent studies demonstrate the advantages of hybrid work, with 80 per cent citing increased well-being and a 3 per cent–4 per cent increase in productivity in flexible work environments.
AI is also becoming more popular; 29 per cent of respondents accept AI wellness advice, a number that rises to 47 per cent among those aged 18 to 24 and 46 per cent among those aged 25 to 34.
Unmind CEO and co-founder Dr. Nick Taylor says: “The research clearly highlights the need for employers to step up in helping their staff thrive, especially younger employees which are disproportionately affected by mental health related absences. Many solutions are available to not only address absenteeism, but create a workplace environment that empowers employees and fosters positive cultures.
“It’s time for employers to embrace a more holistic approach to wellbeing, one that goes beyond traditional EAPs and incorporates the flexibility and innovation that today’s employees are clearly asking for. We are committed to being at the forefront of this change, helping to build a world where mental health is universally understood, nurtured, and celebrated.”