Only One-Third of Young U.S. Workers Use Employer Mental Health Benefits

Although young professionals place a high value on workplace mental health benefits, only about one-third regularly use them, according to recent research.

Young professionals continue to prioritize mental health support, though many do not use available workplace benefits.

The study found that 83 percent of workers aged 18 to 34 consider mental health benefits to be very important, yet only 33.3 percent reported regularly accessing those services.

Researchers said one of the main barriers is a lack of awareness about available benefits.

They noted that employers can help improve participation by normalizing conversations about mental health and increasing awareness of available support programs.

Greater use of mental health services can also benefit employers by reducing burnout and improving employee well-being.

The report also noted that many young professionals are experiencing increased anxiety amid concerns over artificial intelligence and the offshoring of jobs, although those concerns were presented as broader workforce trends rather than direct findings of the study.