Kenyans are experiencing a decline in overall well-being, falling below the global average, with financial concerns and work-related pressures contributing to burnout, stress, and mental health challenges this is according to Cigna’s latest 360° Global Well-Being Survey: Kenya Report.
“The 360° Global Well-Being Survey Kenya Report acts as a reflection of Kenya’s realities, encompassing challenges and aspirations and underscoring the paramount importance of comprehensive well-being. Mental, financial, family health, and accessibility to care stand prominently among respondents’ priorities.” Stated Leah Cotterill, Chief Distribution Officer for Cigna Insurance Middle East, and Africa
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The report has highlighted the impact of the “Great Exhaustion” phenomenon in Kenya, underscoring the need for employers to prioritize their workforce’s well-being.
According to the survey, Kenya scored 60.6 on the 360° Well-being index, which is below the global average of 62.9. While it outperformed economies like Hong Kong (56) and Singapore (59.7), it lagged behind countries such as the United Arab Emirates (68.3), the United Kingdom (60.9), and China (66.5).
Kenya also recorded concerning figures in the Workplace index, with an 85 percent of respondents reporting a constant connection to work, compared to the global rate of 72 percent. This has led to one of the highest burnout rates globally, with 95 percent of Kenyan respondents experiencing at least one symptom of burnout.
The survey found that respondents from Kenya reported the highest stress levels among the 16 countries surveyed, reaching 93 percent compared to the global average of 82 percent. This heightened stress has resulted in disrupted sleep, reduced social interactions, difficulty concentrating, and a waning interest in usual activities.
Financial concerns are significantly impacting well-being, with Kenya’s Financial index scoring well below the global average. Only 7 percent of respondents felt they had sufficient money for retirement, and just 9 percent rated their current financial situation as excellent.
The report also shed light on gender disparities in financial well-being, with men scoring higher (46.6) than women (41.8), indicating inequalities in meeting family medical needs and maintaining their current standard of living.
However, Kenya performed above the global average in Physical and Social Health indexes. With a score of 62.4, Kenya exceeded the global average of 60 points in physical health. Additionally, Kenya’s social health score also surpassed the worldwide figure, with a score of 63.9 points.
“Employers must acknowledge this evolving landscape. Addressing well-being is no longer a mere option; it has become an absolute necessity. The findings serve as a wake-up call to employers in Kenya, urging them to prioritize the holistic well-being of their workforce and contribute to the creation of a more flourishing society.” Said Jerome Droesch, Chief Executive Officer of Domestic Health and Health Services for Cigna International Markets in the report
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The survey also highlighted a shift in virtual health preferences in Kenya, with a majority of respondents preferring quick virtual appointments and expressing trust in virtual consultations showing a preference for new technology in meeting healthcare needs.
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