New research from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) reveals an increasing demand for mental well-being support in workplaces, with 85% of coaching professionals reporting growing requests for assistance in improving mental health. The findings come as concerns surrounding burnout and mental health continue to rise globally, prompting a significant shift in workplace priorities.
The “2024 ICF Snapshot Survey: Coaching and Mental Well-Being” surveyed coaches from diverse backgrounds and specialisations, highlighting the strategies they use and the challenges they face in supporting their clients. The results indicate a pressing need for qualified professionals equipped to address mental well-being concerns.
Key findings from the survey show a noticeable rise in career-related challenges, with 78% of clients citing work issues as their primary reason for seeking coaching, compared to 60% who reported personal life concerns. This trend suggests that while work-life balance remains a vital topic, career pressures are increasingly influencing individuals’ mental health.
The survey also highlights a positive response from organisations, with 64% of coaches employed within companies noting an increase in investment towards employee well-being over the past five years. These investments appear to be yielding benefits, as 53% of coaches indicated that businesses are experiencing positive returns from well-being initiatives. However, 72% of internal coaches believe that further training is essential to meet the growing demand for mental well-being support effectively.
Specific coaching techniques have emerged as particularly impactful for mental well-being. While practices such as mindfulness, visualization, and meditation are widely used, the survey found that self-reflection and personalised approaches often yield better results for clients. Coaches expressed a desire for more opportunities to collaborate and share effective strategies with their peers.
ICF CEO Magdalena Nowicka Mook commented on the findings, stating, “As more and more people in the workplace seek to prioritise their mental well-being, coaching is a high-demand and proven method to address challenges. For coaches eager to meet this need and mitigate the burnout epidemic, ICF’s coaching community, accredited training, and resources can equip them to embody the gold standard of the profession.”
Looking ahead, the survey indicates that 72% of coaching practitioners wish to enhance their capabilities in providing mental well-being support. Moreover, coaches are increasingly recognising the need for specialised interventions based on their clients’ circumstances. Approximately 44% of coaches have referred clients to medical professionals or therapists in the past year, underlining the importance of knowing when to seek additional support.
The study underscores the necessity of equipping coaches with the appropriate tools, resources, and knowledge to assist their clients while also understanding when referrals to mental health professionals are required.
The “2024 ICF Snapshot Survey: Coaching and Mental Well-Being” is part of ICF’s Global Coaching Snapshots research series, conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers. ICF remains dedicated to empowering coaches globally and upholding high professional standards. The report is a significant step in identifying emerging trends and areas for development, ensuring that coaches are ready to meet the growing demand for mental well-being support in the future.
For more information, the executive summary of the study is available on the ICF website, and journalists can request a media copy using the contact information provided.
