A recent survey uncovered a significant discomfort among American workers when it comes to discussing their mental health issues with employers. The particular conducted online survey encompassed 1,207 employees along with 500+ HR leaders and C-level executives from various U.S. organizations.
The survey aimed to gauge the perspectives of both employees and employers concerning mental health resources within their companies. Shockingly, only 51% of employees felt secure that their jobs wouldn’t be impacted if they disclosed their mental health status. Almost half, 49%, feared potential repercussions, including job loss, if they opened up about their mental well-being.
These findings reveal a stark disparity between employer perception and employee reality regarding mental health support in the workplace. While over 70% of executives believed they fostered a healthy work-life balance and encouraged paid time off (PTO), only 53% of employees felt genuinely encouraged to use their PTO. Even fewer, just 46%, sensed support for taking time off specifically for mental health needs, like therapy. Additionally, despite 85% of employers believing they actively listened to their employees’ needs, only 51% of employees agreed. There’s a noticeable discrepancy between employer beliefs and the sentiments of their workforce.
Interestingly, surveyed executives held varying opinions on mental health support:
- 74% felt their employees expected excessive mental health support.
- 71% viewed mental health benefits as financially burdensome.
- 69% considered mental health benefits unnecessary as they weren’t historically provided.
However, despite these opinions, the survey highlighted the crucial role mental health benefits play in fostering employee support and satisfaction within the workplace. Employers noted that mental health benefits ranked highly in terms of utilization, following health insurance and fertility benefits, underscoring their significance among the workforce.
