New research by healthcare provider Benenden Health reveals that younger professionals are playing a proactive role in workplace mental health support, setting a precedent for an open and supportive work culture.
Nearly half (43%) of employees aged 18–34 say they have reached out to support a colleague with mental health struggles, while only 30% of workers aged 55 and older report having done the same. While almost a quarter (23%) of employees aged 55 and above consider mental health a low priority, just 18% of younger employees (18–34) feel the same way.
The findings point to a generational divide, with younger workers actively using workplace mental health resources more frequently than their older colleagues. For instance, 45% of Gen Z and Millennials surveyed admitted to taking time off for mental health issues, compared to 39% of those aged 35–54 and 29% of employees aged 55 and older.
Younger Leaders Drive Workplace Mental Health Initiatives
The proactive approach among younger generations extends to those in leadership positions. According to Benenden Health, 68% of Gen Z and Millennial leaders actively support their teams’ mental health, compared to 58% of leaders aged 35–54 and only 40% of those aged 55 and above. The research suggests that younger leaders may be more attuned to mental health concerns, likely influenced by recent cultural shifts that emphasise mental wellbeing as a factor in workplace productivity.
Mike Hay, Chief People Officer at Benenden Health, commented, “Our findings clearly show that if we want to tackle mental health in the workplace, we need to rely on the guidance of a multi-generational workforce, rather than one generation or seniority level.
“The younger generations have progressed through education being taught that their mental health has a direct impact on their productivity, and with less of a negative stigma than the older generations. While these Gen Z and Millennial workers usher in a culture of acceptance and action, Gen X can support them with resilience and experience in the workforce.
“As HR professionals, it’s important for us to support these employees with an accessible mental health service, such as our 24/7 helpline, as well as strong internal policies, to build comprehensive cover.”
Jemma Williamson, Corporate Mental Health Practitioner at Vita Health Group, calls for openness and accessible mental health resources within companies, which she believes can positively impact employees and create thriving workplaces.
“By being open about mental health, providing necessary resources, and embedding these values into the organizational culture, companies can make a significant positive difference in their employees’ lives,” she said. “This approach not only enhances individual wellbeing but also contributes to a more resilient and thriving workplace.”