Companies that intentionally create space for self-care and well-being consistently outperform their competitors in both innovation and employee engagement. As Mental Illness Awareness Week and World Mental Health Day remind the world each October, mental health is inseparable from workplace success. Leaders who invest in employee well-being are not only protecting their people but are also strengthening the foundation for creativity, resilience and long-term growth.

According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion each year in lost productivity. In the U.S., the Surgeon General has identified workplace well-being as a critical driver of both public health and economic stability. The way organizations support employees’ well-being directly affects engagement, innovation and long-term success. For companies, this means there cannot be a disconnect between employees’ mental health and business priorities.

 

THE CONNECTION BETWEEN MENTAL HEALTH AND BUSINESS PERFORMANCE

Research consistently shows that a mentally healthy workforce is more resilient and, ultimately, more profitable. Many studies demonstrate a correlation between employee well-being and organizational success, and findings from platforms like Gallup indicate that highly engaged employees are more productive and less likely to experience burnout. Plus, companies that maintain an engaged workforce report lower absenteeism, higher retention rates and improved team morale. These findings illustrate how mental health support is still important in business. And, fortunately, building a culture that prioritizes mental health does not always require large budgets or formal programs. 

 

PRACTICAL STEPS TO SUPPORT EMPLOYEE MENTAL HEALTH 

Small, intentional actions can reduce stress, foster psychological safety and help employees feel valued. Recently, JZ Fitness’ Jennifer Zerling joined GHJ’s Women's Empowerment Cohort (an employee resource group at GHJ) for a session on improving physical, mental and emotional wellbeing at work. The session reminded attendees that while mental health is important at the personal level, it must also be championed by employers on behalf of employees. Jennifer emphasized that when employees are encouraged to care for their mental health and bring their authentic selves to work, they are more creative, resilient and engaged. 

Leaders who take these steps can create an environment where employees are more likely to thrive personally and professionally. A few ways to do this include:

  • Establish a platform for addressing concerns. Organizations can encourage employees to raise awareness of concerns they have about the workplace that may impact their mental health and ability to perform their job duties. By enabling an anonymous reporting tool, concerns about the company that are impacting employees’ mental well-being can be easily brought to leadership’s attention. This creates a streamlined process for employees to raise a red flag and still remain anonymous.
  • Emphasize open, transparent communication at all levels. Employees should be empowered to go to their direct supervisor or the company’s leadership when they have questions, concerns or ideas about the workplace. By making it known that leadership is open to feedback and questions, employees can feel more comfortable to bring forth these ideas or concerns, rather than internalizing them. 
    Business and people leaders can take this a step further and set aside dedicated time for “office hours” or question and answer sessions during townhalls and company gatherings. Where there is communication and transparency, there can be confidence in one’s job.
  • Utilize a recognition platform. Make it easy for colleagues and supervisors to vocally recognize team members. According to a Surgeon General report, employees that feel appreciated and recognized have an increased sense of value and meaning. A workplace with such values can contribute to employees’ mental well-being.
  • Implement companywide wellness breaks. Companywide mental health days or scheduled wellness weeks give employees permission to step away without guilt. Research published in the Harvard Business Review notes that time away from work not only allows employees to recharge mentally but also sparks innovative thinking when they return. These structured breaks serve both the individual and the business.

At the end of the day, findings ways to contribute to a safe, inclusive and supportive culture can help businesses prioritize their employees’ mental well-being.

 

MENTAL HEALTH IS A BUSINESS PRIORITY

Beyond fostering a positive culture, these initiatives help reduce burnout, strengthen resilience and promote long-term engagement. Mental Illness Awareness Week and World Mental Health Day highlight the importance of building structures that normalize well-being in the workplace. By doing so, businesses not only care for their people but also position themselves for stronger performance.