The pandemic has strengthened demand for wellness resources and benefits for employees looking for help with a wide range of physical and mental health issues. In a Kaiser Family Foundation survey, more people than ever report experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Before the pandemic, 15% to 20% of people surveyed reported living with a mental health issue such as depression or anxiety. By October 2020, that number had risen to 53% of people reporting that they were suffering from mental health issues due to stress from the coronavirus.
The ongoing stress related to the pandemic has also had a negative impact on lifestyle choices. Some 42% of people who responded to an American Psychological Association (APA) poll noted that they had gained weight during the pandemic, with an average weight gain of 29 pounds. Alcohol use has also increased, with around 23% of people who responded to the APA poll saying they were consuming more alcohol to cope with stress. Smoking and vaping as methods of coping with stress are also on the rise.
