Mental Health Leave Surges 300% as Employers Expand Support
NEW YORK – Workers are increasingly utilizing mental health leave, with rates skyrocketing 300% as before the pandemic, prompting companies to bolster behavioral health services adn train managers to better support employee well-being.
A recent analysis shows employees who access employer-provided behavioral health services return to work six days sooner, on average, than those who don’t – a benefit extending across all leave types, including mental health, surgery, and pregnancy/maternity.
Experts emphasize the importance of proactive mental health support. “The more we can support resiliency-building, teaching self-care and prioritizing work-life harmony before things escalate into notable symptoms with functional impacts, the better,” says a behavioral health expert. This includes offering self-guided resources, well-being coaching, and work-life support.
The issue is also being recognized as a management responsibility. “Teaching managers how to identify team members who are struggling, how to have supportive conversations, and how to refer to various employee benefits makes huge impacts,” the expert notes, adding that leadership support can prevent the need for leave altogether.
Looking ahead, more than 75% of employers plan to offer digital resources for mental health and resiliency by 2026, according to a report from Mercer. Companies are also increasing in-person counseling options and expanding covered therapy sessions through employee assistance programs.
