A new report from Mental Health America (MHA) reveals that nearly all U.S. employers recognized for excelling in workplace mental health prioritize fairness and flexibility. Among 360 companies awarded the 2025 Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health, 94% disclose pay ranges and enforce fair performance reviews, while 99% offer remote, hybrid, or flexible work options.
These organizations, representing over 5 million employees across 21 industries and 40 states, scored an average mental health rating of 89%, significantly higher than the national employer average of 51%. The report highlights the link between transparency, flexibility, and healthier work environments, especially amid rising stress, burnout, and debates over return-to-office policies, according to Zety.ย
The data underscores the cost of poor workplace mental health, with the World Health Organization estimating global productivity losses of $1 trillion annually due to work-related stress.ย
In workplaces deemed unhealthy, nine in ten employees report stress affecting their mental health, more than double the rate in healthier companies.
MHA identifies five key employer actions driving better mental health outcomes.
Workplace policies that improve mental health outcomes
- Transparency and fairness: Most employers publish clear pay policies, enforce equitable performance reviews, communicate major changes internally, run mental health awareness campaigns, and provide clear professional development pathways.
- Flexibility and benefits: Nearly all offer flexible or remote work schedules, adjust policies based on employee feedback, and provide support for navigating benefits, including mental health programs and therapy access.
- Strategic mental health integration: Mental health is woven into organizational priorities, with leadership investigating stress causes, sharing personal experiences to reduce stigma, and encouraging employee involvement in decisions.
- Addressing financial stress: Many employers offer financial education and have adjusted salary and benefits to reduce financial burdens on workers.
- Promoting inclusion and belonging: Employers review hiring for fairness regarding mental health and substance use, build inclusive well-being strategies, and provide specialized support like digital accessibility and accommodations for lactating employees.
