CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With continued uncertainty and concerns driven by the war in Ukraine, rising costs, a new call to return to the office, and the prolonged pandemic, stress levels are at an all-time high affecting people’s mental health and emotional well-being. According to a poll by ComPsych®, the world’s largest provider of employee assistance, work-life and absence management services, 50 percent of employers say mental health support for their employees is the area of greatest concern and need today. When asked themselves, nearly 100 percent of employees polled say mental health support is top concern.

“Even before the pandemic, 1 in 5 adults struggled with mental health issues—and now with world events on top of day-to-day challenges such as childcare, eldercare, and financial pressures, the impact is only growing,” said Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz, Founder, Chairman and CEO of ComPsych. “With the increasing numbers, we are also seeing increased expectations around emotional health and psychological safety at work. People want to feel cared for by their employers.

Organizations around the globe are responding to the health crisis with expanded employee assistance programs and resources for employees and their families. Many are employing compassionate leadership to help employees build resilience and coping skills, and providing manager training to recognize mental health issues and initiate conversations.

“Clearly, employers are gaining awareness about the breadth and complexity of mental health issues people face, and the impact it can have both at home and work," said Chaifetz. “Protecting and supporting the mental health of employees is vital to the future of their business. Organizations that put their arms around employees in times of crisis through communication and openness will go a long way.”