Philippine workers who frequently end their workday exhausted account for an estimated 49.5 lost working days annually, underscoring the economic cost of declining employee wellbeing, according to the latest TELUS Mental Health Index.
The estimate, which includes both absences and reduced effectiveness while at work, is based on a 240-day working year. It compares with 29.7 lost days among workers who do not frequently experience exhaustion.
The findings point to a broader workplace productivity problem, with 48 percent of respondents saying they often finish work mentally or physically drained. Another 82 percent said they work despite feeling unwell at least once a week, while 55 percent acknowledged that their mental health negatively affects their productivity.
The productivity penalty becomes steeper with more frequent presenteeism, or working despite illness. Employees who report doing so four or five days a week lose an estimated 64.1 to 71.1 working days annually, compared with 17.3 days among those who never work while unwell.
Despite the toll, employees may be reluctant to seek assistance. Some 77 percent worry that disclosing a mental health issue at work could limit their career opportunities.
“People leaders don’t feel equipped to handle wellbeing conversations,” said Jamie MacLennan, TELUS Health’s Asia-Pacific region head, calling for better manager training and accessible, judgment-free support.
The management gap is evident in the survey, with only 60 percent of managers saying they would know how to respond if they suspected an employee was struggling.
Financial pressures add another layer of strain. Half of respondents identified personal finances as their biggest source of personal stress, while 54 percent said they had no emergency savings. Cost also prevents 52 percent from accessing mental health support.
The online survey covered 2,000 currently or recently employed Filipinos, with responses collected from July 24 to August 5, 2026.
