What's Happening?
A report by PAM Wellbeing highlights a significant increase in employee demand for workplace mental health counselling, rising from 45% in 2021 to 57% in 2025. Despite this growing demand, access to these services has decreased, with only 22% of employees reporting availability, down from 25% in 2021. The report also notes a decline in the actual use of counselling services, with only 11% of employees utilizing them in the past year compared to 14% in 2023. Concerns about confidentiality and perceptions of therapy as a sign of weakness are cited as barriers to accessing these services. Experts suggest that traditional Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) may not meet employee needs effectively, recommending a pay-as-you-use model to improve accessibility and engagement.
Why It's Important?
The findings underscore a critical gap between the demand for mental health support and the availability of effective services in the workplace. This gap can have significant implications for employee wellbeing, productivity, and retention. As mental health becomes a more prominent issue in workplace dynamics, organizations that fail to address these needs may face increased absenteeism and reduced productivity. The report suggests that companies can benefit from quantifying the impact of mental health on business metrics, which could lead to more strategic investments in employee support systems. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a healthy work environment and maintaining competitive advantage.
What's Next?
Organizations are encouraged to reassess their mental health support strategies, potentially adopting more flexible and personalized models like pay-as-you-use counselling. Senior leaders are advised to openly communicate the value and confidentiality of these services to encourage utilization. As awareness grows, companies may increasingly integrate mental health metrics into their business strategies, aligning employee wellbeing with organizational goals. This shift could lead to more comprehensive and effective mental health support systems in the workplace.
Beyond the Headlines
The report highlights the cultural and psychological barriers that prevent employees from seeking mental health support, such as stigma and fear of negative career impact. Addressing these barriers requires a cultural shift within organizations, promoting openness and acceptance of mental health discussions. Long-term, this could lead to a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture, where mental health is prioritized alongside physical health.
