NAMI Poll Reveals Demand for Enhanced Mental Health Resources in the Workplace

Daniel H. Gillison Jr., CEO of NAMI, stated, "We see a growing trend of increased stress among American workers, but we also see how the right mental health supports can make a difference." He emphasized that employers can foster a culture that reduces stigma and enhances well-being by prioritizing mental health through training and resources.

The third annual NAMI poll, conducted by Ipsos, surveyed full-time employees from companies with over 100 employees. The findings revealed that only 54% of employees feel their workplace prioritizes mental health. Additionally, a substantial majority expressed interest in receiving training on mental health conditions (79%), crisis response (80%), stress management (81%), and employer-offered mental health resources (81%). However, less than a third of respondents reported receiving such training.

Those who work at organizations offering mental health training reported feeling more supported by their managers (86% vs. 70%) and organizational leadership (58% vs. 43%). They were also less concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health issues at work (43% vs. 52%).

The data further indicated that managers play a crucial role in facilitating discussions about mental health, yet only 28% of them have received training to assist their teams in these conversations. Managers with adequate mental health resources are notably more prepared to support their teams (90% vs. 61%) and experience less burnout (45% vs. 73%), with significantly fewer considering quitting for mental health reasons (18% vs. 41%).

While three-quarters of respondents think it is appropriate to discuss mental health at work, many prefer discussing issues related to their identity or physical health over mental health. Nearly half expressed concern about being judged if they disclosed potential mental health challenges to colleagues.

Megan Delp, NAMI’s director of workplace mental health, remarked on the encouraging trend of openness to mental health discussions but warned of persistent barriers due to stigma and fears of retaliation. NAMI's StigmaFree Workplace initiatives aim to help businesses eliminate these obstacles to foster a more connected work environment.

This NAMI/Ipsos poll was conducted from January 27 to February 2, 2026, involving 2,153 full-time employed adults aged 18 or older from companies with at least 100 employees.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the U.S., dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by mental health conditions.