One unsettling news item this week is the Resolution Foundation report, which highlights the role of work in supporting mental health. It found that people in their early 20s are more likely to be not working due to ill health compared to those in their early 40s. This finding leads to a drive towards hiring for skills and explores how organisations can better support the mental health of their employees.

Trends and concerns in workforce behaviour

This is clearly a huge and worrying inversion from how the workforce has behaved historically. Young people are supposed to be healthier than older people, aren’t they? The role of work in supporting mental health is becoming increasingly significant as this trend develops.

As the Resolution Foundation also points out, the problem is especially acute where poor mental health intersects with poor education outcomes. The role of work in supporting mental health must be addressed to alleviate these issues.

Mental health vs physical health

The biggest reason for this change is not physical health but mental health. The factors behind the rise in crippling anxiety and depression in young people are many and complex. They cannot be solved by a ‘just get on with it’ attitude. Although, that’s not to say there isn’t an element of that involved in the solution. As an older person, I am conscious about how I might sound saying that, but that doesn’t mean it’s not true.

Clearly, this situation presents a challenge for society at large, and government health and education policies need to evolve urgently to address this before it worsens. The role of work in supporting mental health should be a central focus in these policy changes.

Employer’s role in mental health support

Recruiters and employers also have an incredibly important role to play. The link between meaningful work, comprehensive training, and mental health, especially for young people, is fundamental. It’s not just about financial stability, though that’s a significant benefit. It’s also about providing purpose, belonging, and opportunities for personal growth. These aspects are crucial for mental well-being, especially during formative years when identities are developing. Meaningful training equips young people with technical skills and essential soft skills like resilience, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are invaluable for navigating life’s challenges.

The factors behind the rise in crippling anxiety and depression in young people are many and complex and cannot be solved by a ‘just get on with it attitude’.

Resilience and adaptability are crucial tools for navigating today’s challenges, according to many employers. These qualities form the foundation for thriving in a fast-paced, unpredictable job market. As AI increases unpredictability, employers investing in learning and development across all roles will strengthen their employer brand. This includes not just graduates and high potentials, but all employees. This approach helps retain key talent and fosters strategies for maintaining mental health.

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