Workplace mental health isn’t just a wellness issue—it’s a business imperative. According to a recent study from Spring Health and Forrester Consulting, nearly 60% of employees say their mental health has negatively impacted their work. At Mental Wellness Center in Santa Barbara, we believe in prioritizing mental wellness not just at home, but also on the job.

The Business Case for Mental Health at Work

The 2023 Spring Health–Forrester study surveyed over 1,000 HR and benefits leaders and found:
  • 59% of employees said mental health challenges had impacted their work in the past year
  • 81% of HR leaders believe poor employee mental health is a business risk
  • Organizations investing in mental health saw reduced absenteeism, improved productivity, and stronger retention
When businesses support mental wellness, they don’t just improve morale—they drive better outcomes.

The Cost of Ignoring Mental Health in the Workplace

Ignoring mental health doesn’t save money—it costs more:

  • Absenteeism and presenteeism cost employers an estimated $47.6 billion
    annually (Forrester study)
  • High turnover and low engagement reduce productivity and increase replacement costs
  • Poor mental health correlates with chronic stress, which contributes to heart disease, insomnia, and burnout

What Employees Actually Want

According to the study, employees overwhelmingly value:
  • Access to mental health support that is easy to navigate
  • Confidentiality and trust in employer-provided programs
  • Time and space to prioritize mental wellness at work
  • A culture of psychological safety and emotional support

Action tip for employers: Regular check-ins, flexible schedules, and visible leadership support can build a mentally healthy workplace.

Local Resources in Santa Barbara

  1. Mental Wellness Center (Community Classes & Programs)
  2. Cottage Health Behavioral Wellness Services

National Resources for Workplace Mental Health

  1. NAMI Workplace Mental Health Guide
  2. Mental Health America (MHA) – Work Health Survey Tools
  3. Crisis Text Line
    • Free, 24/7 confidential support
    • Text “HELLO” to 741741

Start the Conversation

Mental health at work is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re a business owner or a team member, you can help create a culture where mental wellness is valued and supported. If you or your team needs guidance, Mental Wellness Center is here to help.