Asian wellness in decline: a cost of rising prosperity

Purpose The purpose of this article is to provide a general review of the state of wellness in Asia's growing economies. Design/methodology/approach The paper looks at wellness issue in a number of Asian countries. Findings The rising prosperity of Asia's growing economies has drawn adverse consequences on employee wellness and the work‐life balance of many people. Intensified global competition and the expanding wealth gaps in Asia induce stress and create tension. A growing segment of Asia's working population reports being overworked and excessively strained, along with symptoms of fatigue, depression/anxiety, musculo‐skeletal pains, sleeping disorders and a rapid increase in chronic diseases. Long working hours, excessive workload, weekend duties, inadequate physical activity and an unhealthy lifestyle are often cited as the key sources of chronic fatigue and work stress. Mounting incidents of occupational illnesses/accidents, and the growing number of karoshi and suicides among prime‐aged working adults further raise concerns regarding individuals' health awareness and corporate effectiveness in employee wellness management. Originality/value The paper provides a valuable overview of the situation of declining wellness in Asia.