Jobsdb by SEEK highlights heavy workload as leading cause of employee stress and resignations

The survey reveals that heavy workload is the leading cause of stress at work, accounting for 43%. 
Companies with high-stress levels result in 33% of employees resigning. 
BANGKOK, 29 May 2024 - Jobsdb by SEEK recommends employers improve employee benefits to address mental health issues and enhance retention. This advice comes following the findings of the Hiring, Compensation, and Benefits 2024 Report by Jobsdb by SEEK, which reveals that workplace stress contributes to a 33% resignation rate.
The Ministry of Public Health reports that the number of mental health patients in Thailand has increased over the past three years, especially those with depression. The number of people diagnosed with depression increased from 1,156,734 in 2021 to 1,240,729 in 2023. Overall, Thailand had 4.4 million mental health patients in 2023, accounting for 6.44% of the population, double the 2.5 million reported in 2022. Additionally, data from the Mental Health Check-in, which surveyed 5.28 million respondents, revealed that between 2020 and 2024, 7.87% of Thais experienced high stress, 9.25% were at risk of depression, and 5.26% were at risk of suicide. These figures highlight the critical need for organisations to address employee mental health, as employees are key to driving business growth in an increasingly competitive environment.
Khun Duangporn Prom-on, Managing Director of Jobsdb by SEEK, presented findings from the Hiring, Compensation, and Benefits 2024 Report on workplace mental health. The report, conducted by Jobsdb by SEEK, explores the mental health challenges organisations and employees are facing. Data was gathered from 685 companies across various industries and job functions in Thailand to understand the factors impacting employee mental health, stress levels and stress causes. The report also offers strategies for retaining top talent.
The report shows that 69% of organisations rated their stress levels as moderate (3 to 7 on a scale), with the average stress level being 4.9. The highest level of stress was recorded at 5, representing 26% of organisations surveyed, suggesting that most workplaces experience an average stress level. However, 14% of companies fall into the high-stress category.
In general, business owners believe the primary causes of workplace stress are heavy workloads (43%), followed by inadequate resources (26%) and high pressure from management or fast-paced working conditions (24%). These stressors are more prevalent in high-stress companies, which experience issues such as high resignation rates (33%), bias or favouritism (31%), lack of recognition (26%), low compensation (27%) and excessive hierarchy (27%).
Nevertheless, the survey highlights a growing trend towards work-life balance and well-being, with 43% of organisations increasingly prioritising their employees' mental well-being. This includes initiatives like mental health days and counselling services. Companies are also engaging in more frequent discussions about mental health, with the average company addressing the topic approximately 4.6 times per year. This reflects an increasing emphasis on mental health benefits across the board.
Additionally, a range of other initiatives is emerging to help employees achieve a better work-life balance and manage work-related stress. Examples include company-sponsored activities such as outings, educational opportunities, flexible work schedules, providing snacks and drinks, offering time off before holidays, flexible workdays and on-site recreational or fitness activities like hiring fitness trainers for office workouts. These efforts form part of a broader approach to promoting employee well-being and satisfaction.
If management explores and implements these additional benefits within their organisations, they not only enhance employee happiness and improve work-life balance but also foster stronger relationships between the organisation and its employees.
"Mental health is a top priority for the younger generation, and entrepreneurs should take action to support their employees. The report found that 58% of employers believe they are doing enough to help employees cope with stress. However, this relatively low figure suggests there is significant room for improvement in mental health support within organisations. This aligns with reports from the Department of Mental Health, which show a yearly increase in employee stress rates. Supporting and motivating employees to help those experiencing stress in the workplace is another trend that entrepreneurs should not overlook," Khun Duangporn concluded.
For entrepreneurs seeking further information, the full report can be downloaded at: https://th.employer.seek.com/th/page/hiring-compensation-benefits-report-2024
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Jobsdb by SEEK highlights heavy workload as leading cause of employee stress and resignations

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