In 2020, mental health support was a "nice to have." In 2025, it is a primary decision factor for 78% of job seekers. Candidates are scrutinizing benefits packages for more than just dental plans.
What 'Good' Looks Like: It’s not just an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) login. Competitive offers now include: 100% covered therapy sessions (via Lyra or similar), mandatory "unplugged" days where the whole company shuts down, and "burnout sabbaticals" after 3 years.
Manager Training: The best companies are training managers to spot signs of distress. "Psychological Safety" is a KPI. If a team is constantly burning the midnight oil, the manager is flagged for retraining, not promotion.
Retention Impact: Data shows that every $1 invested in evidence-based mental health programs yields a $4 return in improved health and productivity. It's an economic no-brainer.
