Prioritizing employee mental health

In recent years, there has been an increasing emphasis on mental health in the workplace, driven by external challenges like the pandemic, economic uncertainty, and financial pressures. It has become more crucial than ever for employers to prioritize mental health in their benefits packages.

81% of workers actively seek employers who support mental well-being,¹ and 84% acknowledge that their work environment has contributed to at least one mental health challenge.² Companies must embrace this cultural shift to create a supportive and sustainable work environment.

What is employee mental health?

Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, directly affecting our daily actions, thoughts, and emotions. It also influences our ability to manage stress, communicate effectively, and make decisions. Mental health is integral to the functioning of our minds and our overall quality of life.³

Whether good or poor, mental health can significantly affect employees in various ways, including:

Job productivity and performance

Workplace relationships

Job attendance

Problem-solving

Physical health and well-being

The importance of mental health in the workplace

A healthy work environment, where employees feel emotionally and psychologically supported, directly impacts their productivity, creativity, engagement, and job satisfaction. When you prioritize mental health, your workforce is better equipped to navigate life stressors, challenges, and setbacks.

Some key reasons mental health is important in the workplace are:

Increased productivity

Employees with good mental health are more focused, efficient, and productive, resulting in higher quality work and better outcomes for the organization.

Resilience to stress

Positive mental health equips employees with the stability needed to handle the stressors and obstacles of their roles.

Reduced absenteeism

Employees with good mental health are less likely to take time off due to stress, anxiety, or other mental health-related issues.

Improved employee retention

Organizations that prioritize mental health are more likely to retain their employees, reducing turnover.

Enhanced talent recruitment

Employers who emphasize the importance of mental health can attract more top talent.

Better morale and engagement

Employees with mental health support may be more motivated and committed to their jobs and the organization, boosting their morale and engagement.

See how ClassPass can support mental health in the workplace

Workplace factors that can impact employees' mental health

The workplace environment and company culture play a significant role in influencing employees' mental health. An unsupportive, hostile, or overwhelming environment can lead to stress, anxiety, poor mental health, and, ultimately, poor job performance.

Workplace factors that can impact employees' mental health include⁴:

Poor work-life balance:

When employees struggle to balance work responsibilities with personal life, it can lead to chronic stress, fatigue, and decreased job satisfaction.

Working long, inflexible hours:

Employees who work long hours with little time to rest and recharge may experience burnout, which negatively impacts their mental health.

Inadequate support:

A lack of support from management or colleagues can make employees feel isolated, undervalued, and overwhelmed, leading to increased stress and anxiety.

Toxic workplace culture:

A negative, hostile, or unsupportive work environment can severely affect mental health, leading to feelings of disengagement and a decline in overall well-being.

How can employers improve mental health in the workplace?

Once you understand the factors that can contribute to poor mental health, you can take steps to ensure employees are supported.

Wellness programs

Provide holistic benefits, like the ClassPass Corporate Wellness Program, to help employees rest, reset, and practice self-care.

Adequate time-off policies

Encourage your employees to take ample personal, vacation, and volunteer time off and support them in using it.

Flexible work schedules

Let employees choose when, how, and where they work.

Supportive workplace culture

Cultivate a culture that prioritizes and respects work-life balance, including open communication channels and supportive management.

Enrichment opportunities

Give your team breaks from their work to connect, socialize, and participate in stress-free, mindful, and engaging activities.

Mental health resources

Give your team access to mental health apps and professionals to support their well-being.

ClassPass can positively impact employee health

Studies show that healthy employees are more engaged, have higher morale, and a better ability to focus, leading to fewer sick days and better work performance. By providing employees with access to a vast network of fitness studios, gyms, and wellness services, the ClassPass Corporate Wellness Program supports physical and mental health for your employees.

of employees view their employer more positively after receiving ClassPass as a benefit

of employees say their overall well-being has improved after joining ClassPass

of employees value wellness benefits over other perks

Based on a 2025 global survey of active ClassPass Corporate users.

Support employee mental health with ClassPass

Discover how the ClassPass Corporate Wellness Program can enhance your employees’ mental health by encouraging self-care, all through a single, comprehensive benefit.

¹ Workers appreciate and seek mental health support in the workplace

²Mind Share Partners' 2021 Mental Health at Work Report

³About mental health

⁴Mental Health in the Workplace

Prioritizing employee mental health

What is employee mental health?

The importance of mental health in the workplace

Workplace factors that can impact employees' mental health

How can employers improve mental health in the workplace?

ClassPass can positively impact employee health

Support employee mental health with ClassPass

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