While there’s growing awareness about mental health struggles, stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to effective support in many workplaces. Some employers still perceive mental health issues as a personal matter rather than a professional one, assuming it’s “just something employees need to deal with on their own.” In fact, 1 in 5 adults in North America experiences a mental health issue annually, yet many employees are reluctant to disclose their struggles for fear of being judged or labeled as “less competent.”
This stigma can lead to poor retention and performance, as employees may feel unsupported or misunderstood. Employers who neglect mental health concerns risk alienating their workforce, leading to decreased morale and potential turnover. HR and finance leaders in midsized companies can address this by fostering open conversations about mental health, normalizing these challenges, and creating clear policies that ensure confidentiality and support.
Leaders who actively work to break the stigma around mental health are more likely to see an increase in employee loyalty, satisfaction, and overall productivity. Addressing mental health struggles with sensitivity and empathy is not just a “nice to have” but a critical part of building a resilient workforce.
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