NAMI and Lyra Health Highlight Challenges in Workplace Mental Health

In the 2026 NAMI-Ipsos Workplace Mental Health Poll, Solish reported that while 75% of employees found it appropriate to discuss mental health at work, only 61% felt comfortable doing so. This disparity, referred to as a “comfort gap” by Solish, illustrates an ongoing stigma surrounding mental health discussions. NAMI's Stigma-Free Workplace initiative offers resources for both employers and employees to prioritize mental well-being.

Solish also pointed out a critical deficiency in mental health support training for managers, who face high burnout rates. “The managers who are asked to carry everyone else are burning out at these alarming rates of 73% when they don’t have support,” she stated, questioning, “Who’s supporting our supporters?”

Mitsock, in her analysis of Lyra's 2026 State of Workforce Mental Health Report, highlighted the increasing need for specialized care due to complex issues like neurodivergence and the impact of emerging stressors such as artificial intelligence. She emphasized the vital role that managers play in fostering healthy organizational environments. “We really need to wrap our arms around them and ensure they have the resources to help their employees create psychologically safe environments,” she said.

Both experts urged journalists to critically assess whether organizations are effectively implementing mental health resources. Solish remarked, “Companies may actually be spending a lot of money on these programs… but if no one knows they exist, then in practice they don’t exist.” Mitsock noted improvements in access to mental health support but underscored a paradox: despite better access, many individuals continue to suffer.

This discussion was part of the program sponsored by the Luv U Project, with the American Psychological Association as an associate sponsor. The National Press Foundation is responsible for the content of this program.