May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, an issue that affects us all, directly or indirectly. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel and act, influencing how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Yet, despite its importance, mental health often remains in the shadows, shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding with high prices for those who are seeking treatment.

Mental health is not a niche concern; it’s a universal aspect of the human experience. From anxiety to depression, to bipolar disorder to schizophrenia, mental health conditions come in many forms, impacting people of all ages, genders, races and socioeconomic backgrounds. One in five U.S. adults will experience a mental health issue each year. Mental health conditions like depression are directly linked to physical health issues like diabetes and heart disease.

While mental health challenges affect everyone, certain groups and generations face unique pressures. Millennials and Gen Z grapple with the added stress of being in the middle of a hyperconnected world, navigating social media’s relentless online culture, a challenge that older generations did not deal with at a younger age. 75% of the workforce will be Millennials by 2025, and the open struggle through mental health conditions may only be more prevalent in the coming years. Gen Z is 27% more likely to rate their mental health as fair or poor. More than 9 in 10 Gen Z adults say they have experienced physical or emotional symptoms due to stress, such as depression or sadness.

Mental health doesn’t clock out when the workday ends. It influences our productivity, creativity and ability to collaborate. Yet, the workplace is a common source of stress, with demands for performance, tight deadlines and toxic environments taking their toll. Similarly, our home lives can either nurture or strain our mental wellbeing depending on the quality of our relationships, living situations and support networks.​

Employers can play a huge impactful role in mental health and wellbeing by implementing supportive policies and benefits. From flexible work arrangements to employee assistance programs and mental health days, organizations can create environments where employees feel valued, understood and empowered to prioritize their mental health and not feel ashamed to vocalize when they need a break. If you’re offering mental health benefits but not creating a supportive workplace, your efforts as an employer won’t be enough. These two go hand in hand, creating a supportive space during the day and well-rounded benefits to support employee whole wellbeing.

Wondering what you should include in your benefits package to support mental health? Start with mental health benefits that include therapy in person and through telehealth to ensure accessibility for all. Analyze your workforce to better understand what else they need support with. Is your workforce made up of working parents? Consider childcare and eldercare benefits along with a flexible working schedule to accommodate for unexpected sickness or emergencies. Finances can also be a huge source of stress for everyone in the workforce. Ensure your benefits and compensation package is in line with market value and offer financial wellness and education benefits to ensure employees can budget and be financially prepared for the future.

Research shows that prioritizing mental wellness leads to higher employee engagement, reduced absenteeism and increased productivity. Every individual deserves access to the resources and support they need to thrive, free from stigma or discrimination. Mental health is not a solitary journey, it’s a collective responsibility. By breaking the silence, challenging stigma and prioritizing mental wellbeing, employers can create a positive environment where employees can live their fullest, healthiest lives.