- July 21, 2025
- Posted by: Regent Harbor Team
- Category: Finance
Contents
The Big Apple’s Take on Mental Health in Business
The business case for mental health is clear as day.
Mental Health’s Far-Reaching Grip
You’d have to be living under a rock not to notice the growing wave of mental health challenges lately. Over a billion folks worldwide are caught up in some form of mental health struggle. According to the World Health Organization, that’s a staggering figure. Stateside, about 60 million Americans battle mental illness each year.
The stress levels are through the roof. Around half of the workforce feels this weight daily, says the American Psychological Association. No wonder, with surveys showing 27% of people struggling to function most days.
Gen Z’s Unique Battle
Our youngest workers, Gen Z, aren’t catching a break either. These kids are stressed like it’s going out of style. Mental Health America reports that one in five aged 12-17 had a depressive episode over the past year. Yet, most didn’t get the help they needed.
With nearly every Gen Zer feeling stressed or burned out, according to Cigna, it’s time for some big changes. They are, after all, the future of our workforce.
The Business Case for Investing in Mental Health
Why It’s a Smart Move for Employers
Investing in mental health is not just about doing the right thing for the soul. It’s about smart business. LIMRA found 75% of U.S. workers experienced mental health challenges recently, with high costs on productivity.
Major Impacts and Costs
Mental health woes can be expensive. McKinsey estimates depression costs U.S. employers around $105 billion each year. This includes healthcare, absenteeism, and turnover. Presenteeism is another silent productivity killer.
A Penn State study notes how just one bad mental health day a month can significantly impact income growth.
The Return on Investment (ROI)
Why Mental Health Pays Off
Businesses investing in mental health often see a good ROI. A study in JAMA Open Network showed $190 return for every $100 spent on behavioral health.
Moreover, a Deloitte study found long-term mental health programs offer increasing returns as they mature. Companies see ROI of $1.62 in the short term, jumping to $2.18 after three years.
Boosting Productivity and Performance
When companies back mental health, morale and productivity get a lift. The Workforce Institute at UKG found 80% of employees felt energized when supported. Another study, published in PLOS One, noted improvements in retention and customer service.
Supporting both mental and physical health reduced absenteeism and presenteeism, as highlighted in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (JOEM).
Scaling for Broader Impact
A National and Global Perspective
McKinsey estimates scaling mental health programs could inject $4.4 trillion into global GDP by 2050. Access to support can reduce absences and improve health outcomes, benefiting individuals and the economy alike.
Moving Forward with Purpose
Given these compelling arguments, businesses must strategize wisely. Focus on long-term wellness, preventive measures, and continual improvement. The bottom line? Investing in mental health isn’t just empathetic—it’s economically smart.
In the end, it’s about making choices that benefit both people and profit. Now, who wouldn’t want that?
Feel free to check out these detailed studies and insights for a closer look:
