Workplace Wellbeing for Actuaries: Key Insights from Wellhub's 2025 Report

The latest Work-Life Wellness 2025 report by Wellhub reveals that workplace wellbeing is no longer a luxury but an expectation. 85% of employees believe their employer has a responsibility to support their wellbeing, and 83% would consider leaving a company that does not prioritize it. These numbers reflect a dramatic shift in workforce expectations, making wellbeing initiatives a core element of talent retention and engagement.
For actuaries whose work involves high analytical demands and long hours, investing in their wellbeing is crucial. Stress management, physical health, and financial stability directly impact productivity and job satisfaction. This report highlights key strategies that actuaries can implement to enhance their workplace wellness and maintain a sustainable work-life balance.

Key Areas of Wellbeing for Actuaries

The report identifies five key areas that significantly impact workplace wellness:

1.    Mental Wellbeing and Stress Management

• 47% of employees report that workplace stress negatively affects their mental health. For actuaries handling complex risk assessments, managing stress is essential.
• Burnout-driven productivity losses cost companies $322 billion annually, making mental wellness a business-critical issue.
• Strategies for actuaries: Implement mindfulness exercises, take regular breaks, and use structured time management techniques to reduce stress.
• Employers can help by offering mental health support programs and fostering an open culture around wellbeing.

2.    Physical Wellbeing and Fitness

• Only 39% of employees consider themselves fit or extremely fit, while 54% say work prevents them from exercising regularly.
• Actuaries, who often work in sedentary office settings, can benefit from incorporating movement into their daily routine—whether by working at standing desks, taking short walks, or regular exercise sessions.
• Companies offering fitness programs see 20% higher fitness levels among employees, making these a valuable initiative.

3.    Financial Wellbeing and Stability

• 68% of employees say financial constraints prevent them from investing in their wellbeing, and 47% report that financial stress affects their mental health.
• Even in a well-compensated field like actuarial science, managing personal finances effectively is crucial for overall wellness.

4.    Sleep and Recovery

• 71% of workers sleep less than the recommended seven hours per night, which reduces productivity and increases stress levels.
• Chronic sleep deprivation contributes to long-term health risks, affecting decision-making and concentration—two crucial skills for actuaries.
• Employers can promote flexible work hours and discourage late-night work communication to improve sleep habits.

5.    Workplace Flexibility and Culture

• 79% of employees using workplace wellness programs report higher job satisfaction, yet only 12% have access to comprehensive wellness initiatives.
• Hybrid and remote work options can improve work-life balance, particularly for actuaries who require deep focus and uninterrupted working hours.
• A culture of respect, including clear expectations around work hours and availability, prevents excessive stress and improves overall engagement.

The Business Case for Investment in Wellbeing 

The report highlights that companies investing in wellbeing programs experience a positive return on investment, with $2 returned for every $1 spent on wellness initiatives. Benefits include lower healthcare costs, reduced absenteeism, and higher retention rates. For employers in the actuarial field, integrating wellness programs can lead to improved employee performance, lower turnover, and stronger overall engagement.

Conclusion: Practical Steps for Actuaries and Employers

For actuaries aiming to improve their wellbeing, the following steps are essential:

• Prioritize mental health by using stress-management techniques and advocating for employer-supported wellness programs.
• Incorporate physical activity into the workday, even in small increments, to combat the effects of sedentary work.
• Ensure financial stability through budgeting, investment strategies, and taking advantage of employer financial wellness programs.
• Improve sleep habits by maintaining a healthy work-life balance and setting boundaries around work hours.
• Advocate for flexible work policies that support deep focus work and prevent burnout.

Employers must recognize that supporting workplace wellbeing is not just an ethical obligation – it is a business imperative. By fostering a work environment that prioritizes mental, physical, and financial wellness, companies can enhance productivity, attract top actuarial talent, and maintain a sustainable workforce in the years to come.

You can download the report here.