8. MetLife UK finds 74% of those with accident-related injuries experienced mental health challenges
MetLife UK research published during the year highlighted the often overlooked impact of accident related injuries on mental wellbeing, making it a notable story for the protection market. The study, based on responses from more than 3,000 adults, found that 74% of those who had experienced an accident related injury said it had affected their mental health, while 14% said the injury had also caused stress and anxiety for their loved ones.
The findings showed that the effects of accidents extended well beyond physical injury - respondents reported feelings of frustration, stress, anxiety and depression, alongside sleep loss, exhaustion and difficulty coping. Among those who required a hospital stay, concerns centred on time off work, unpaid leave and being away from children, and the research also highlighted financial strain, with a significant number of people relying on savings or credit to cover costs during recovery.
