Employers say that the wellbeing of their employees is a priority – and many invest in employee assistance programs (EAPs) – yet many workers hold back from seeking the support they need due to stigma and confidentiality concerns.
The Prudential Financial Inc.’s 2025 Benefits & Beyond study recently revealed that nearly two-thirds (63%) of U.S. workers say they are worried about mental health for themselves or their families. Despite these concerns, however, over half of employees with access to EAPs have not taken advantage of their services, which offer confidential and professional support for personal or work-related issues.
According to Gallup, employees struggling with mental health issues miss four times more work and cost the economy $47.6 billion annually, leaving significant implications for businesses.
“The workplace is facing a mental health wake-up call – and an opportunity to cultivate a more supportive culture,” said Michael Estep, president, Prudential Group Insurance. “Employers must step up to provide needed support and foster a culture where using mental health programs are not only acceptable but encouraged. By providing accessible, stigma-free, and proactive support, businesses can empower employees, strengthen workforce resilience, and boost performance.”
The study reveals that many employees are hesitant to use mental health resources or even discuss mental health at work due to barriers such as a fear of negative consequences (40%), concerns about confidentiality (38%), and worries about job security if they take a mental health leave (38%).
Additionally, the study reveals that there appears to be a large gap in communications and awareness of EAPs. Although employers believe they communicate about EAPs frequently, 22% of employees said they know little about their available benefits and 1 in 10 finds them too complex.
The report recommends that when it comes to mental health support, employers should consider options beyond the standard benefits typically offered during open enrollment. Both employers and employees said they agree the three most helpful and realistic offerings include mental health days, flexible work schedules, and stress management programs.
“Employers have the opportunity to proactively provide comprehensive benefits that holistically support their employees,” said Jess Gillespie, head of Product & Underwriting for Prudential Group Insurance. “By elevating mental health as a core workplace focus and encouraging engagement with available programs, employers can help reduce mental health stigma and cultivate a supportive culture, significantly enhancing both employee wellbeing and organizational productivity.”
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