65: Percentage of employees who don’t think they’re getting mental health benefits or programs that help them during the pandemic
Nearly two-thirds of employees of all generations say they do not feel their employer offers benefits or programs that help support or improve their mental wellbeing during this uncertain time, according to research from MetLife’s 18th annual U.S. Employee Benefit Trends Study. The study also found that 42% of Gen Z and 36% of millennials do not feel mentally well right now–significantly more than other generations, as just 27% of Gen X and 17% of boomers say the same.
What it means to HR leaders
As employers and employees continue to adjust to the struggles of the new normal, it’s critical for employers to view mental health as vital to employees’ overall wellbeing, says Bradd Chignoli, senior vice president of group benefits at MetLife.
Although employers already are offering some mental health resources–notably employee-assistance programs that include counseling services–MetLife’s findings show that employers need to step up in a big way. That’s especially important as a growing number of employees look for support due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“This is a ripe opportunity to both communicate to employees about the benefit and reduce stigmas often associated with mental health through company leaders and managers leading by example,” Chignoli says. “In addition, financial wellness programs provide targeted support for a major concern of employees today: their financial health. Having these supportive benefits are invaluable for employees to maintain engagement and productivity, while also showing them they are supported as they cope with the pandemic’s impact on their and their families’ lives.”
