Just under half (46%) of Gen Z workers say stigma prevents them from seeking mental health care.
Gen Z Workers Continue to Struggle with Mental Health
New research reveals that two in five (40%) Gen Z employees experience feelings of depression or anxiety at least a few times per week, signaling a persistent mental health crisis in the youngest segment of the U.S. workforce. While these figures mark a slight improvement from last year’s data when 45% reported frequent mental health struggles, they remain significantly higher than rates seen in other generations. Compounding the issue, just under half (46%) of Gen Z workers report that mental health stigma prevents them from seeking professional support, down from 52% last year but still alarmingly high.
Demand Grows for Employer Support
There is a clear call for change in the workplace with three in five workers (60%) across all generations expressing a desire for more mental health resources from their employers which may suggest a critical gap in support structures and an urgent opportunity for businesses to respond with meaningful action. As mental health continues to influence employee retention, productivity, and overall well-being, enhancing workplace support has become a competitive imperative.
Tangible Steps to Improve Employee Resilience
To build resilience and better support employee mental well-being, organizations are encouraged to take several evidence-backed actions. Employees identified flexible work schedules (53%) as the most effective step employers can take. Other valuable initiatives include new or improved reward and recognition programs (43%), learning and development opportunities (34%), financial assistance during challenging times (33%), better working accommodations (31%), and mentoring and networking opportunities (22%). By implementing these strategies, employers can address current needs and foster a healthier, more engaged workforce.
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The Hartford’s New Research Finds Continued Need Among Gen Z Workers For Mental Health Care
Research publisher
The Hartford is a leader in property and casualty insurance, employee benefits and mutual funds. With more than 200 years of expertise, The Hartford is widely recognized for its service excellence, sustainability practices, trust and integrity.
Methodology
The Hartford’s 2025 Future of Benefits Study was fielded March 4 – 28, 2025 and included 701 employers and 1,000 U.S. workers. The employers surveyed were HR professionals who manage/decide employee benefits and U.S. workers surveyed were actively employed. The margin of error is employer +/- 3% and U.S. worker +/-3% at a 95% confidence level.
