The gap between employee and manager perceptions of mental health support in the workplace highlights a critical issue in today’s corporate environments. According to a recent report from Checkr, a provider of background-check software, only 46% of employees rate their mental health at work as “very good” or better, compared to 60% of managers who rate their own mental health more positively. This disparity suggests that while some progress has been made in addressing mental health in the workplace, significant challenges remain in terms of inclusivity and open dialogue.
Diverging Views on Mental Health Support
The survey of 3,000 equally divided managers and employees reveals not only differences in how each group rates their mental health but also how they perceive their company’s efforts to provide mental health support. For example, 66% of managers expressed satisfaction with their company’s mental health support, compared to only 58% of employees. Furthermore, 63% of managers believe they effectively promote work-life balance to avoid burnout, while only 54% of employees agreed.
Persistent Stigma and Communication Gaps
Despite growing awareness of mental health issues, stigmatization remains a barrier to open communication. Both managers and employees acknowledged that workers who express mental health struggles are still often seen as less capable or less productive—with 40% of managers and 37% of employees agreeing on this perception. This stigma discourages many employees from discussing their mental health concerns openly, with over 40% of both managers and employees agreeing that fear of negative repercussions prevents these conversations.
Checkr’s report emphasizes that “addressing this stigma is essential for creating a workplace culture that supports mental health transparency and inclusivity.” Without addressing this issue, employees may continue to withhold important mental health concerns, preventing them from seeking the support they need.
Communication About Mental Health Resources
A significant issue highlighted in the survey is the lack of clear communication about available mental health benefits. While 60% of managers said they felt mental health benefits had been clearly communicated, only 50% of employees agreed. The survey also revealed that 31% of both managers and employees see mental health-related departures as a significant issue in their workplace, indicating that mental health concerns can directly impact retention and turnover.
Importance of Mental Health in Retention and Wellbeing
The survey underscores the importance of integrating mental health support into workplace culture, with half of the respondents saying they would consider leaving their current job if adequate mental health support wasn’t available. As the report notes, “companies must prioritize mental health support to maintain employee well-being and reduce turnover.” A proactive, integrated approach to mental health support—one that includes better communication and reduces stigma—can create a more engaged and productive workforce.
Shaping the Future of Mental Health in the Workplace
Checkr concludes that the future of mental health in the workplace will depend on proactive approaches, where mental health is seamlessly integrated into company culture and strategic planning. Companies that successfully implement and communicate robust mental health programs can create a more inclusive, supportive environment, which will be crucial for improving employee satisfaction, well-being, and productivity in the long run.
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