2025 employee benefits & workplace predictions: Mental health

Many employees find it difficult to unplug from their home desks, so employers might consider offering or even requiring training and education around working remotely to maintain healthy boundaries.

Donna Bormann, HR business partner, isolved

Nutrition & improved employee mental health

In 2025, promoting proper nutrition in the workplace will be a key driver of improved employee mental health and productivity. As organizations increasingly offer access to healthy snacks—like fresh fruits, nuts, and whole grains—employees will experience enhanced energy levels and better focus throughout the day.

With the rise of educational initiatives, such as workshops and informational resources, employees will gain a deeper understanding of the connection between nutrition and mental wellbeing, empowering them to make healthier food choices.

This shift toward a workplace culture that prioritizes nutrition will not only support physical health but also reduce stress and burnout, resulting in a more effective, resilient, and productive workforce.

Cecilia Hellström, workplace wellbeing director, Lifesum

Mental health care IS health care

More companies will offer more than basic health care and move toward comprehensive mental health support, including therapy benefits, mental health days, and wellness stipends. Wellness programs will also incorporate mindfulness, stress management, and programs designed to prevent burnout, helping employees feel recharged and motivated.

Carmen Amador Barreiro, community lead and organizational psychologist, Oyster

Employees with high-acuity needs

As the demand for mental health support rises, so does the need to address the complex and diverse challenges faced by employees, especially those with high-acuity needs. These needs often include severe mental health conditions, substance use disorders, trauma, or chronic stress. Employers are now beginning to recognize the importance of understanding and supporting their workforce through integrated mental health programs that cater to a wide range of needs.

In 2025, the workplace will focus more on high-acuity mental health solutions as employers realize that mental health support is not a one-size-fits-all approach.

This shift will consider the unique challenges and levels of risk faced by diverse employees ensuring that support is both tailored and equitable. By addressing these varied needs, companies can create a more supportive and productive environment that fosters the wellbeing of all employees.

Karishma Patel Buford, Psy.D., Clinical Psychology, chief people officer, Spring Health

The intersection of DEI and mental health

Employees from underrepresented groups face unique barriers to mental health care, such as stigma, cultural differences, and lack of diverse providers. Moving into 2025 and beyond, employers will recognize the value of offering mental health support that aligns with employees’ cultural and social contexts, fosters inclusivity, and promotes better outcomes. By committing to equitable mental health benefits, leaders can make progress toward closing care gaps across diverse populations as well as improving retention.

Employees are more likely to stay with companies that prioritize inclusivity and wellbeing. For advisors and their clients who make an effort to implement and integrate a strong DEI and mental health strategy, there is an opportunity to more effectively meet employees where they are and enhance the organization’s reputation as an employer of choice.

Keri Robertson Fuenzalida, DO FACOEP, medical director, Health Advocate