March 28, 2025 from Benefits Canada
A recent survey from wellness platform Headspace reveals that 51% of employers have noticed an increase in mental health-related leaves of absence. At the same time, four in 10 employees reported taking time off specifically for their own mental health needs — a clear sign that psychological strain is becoming more visible in the workplace.
Yet the survey, which gathered insights from more than 250 employers and 2,000 employees in the U.K. and U.S., paints a complicated picture. Most employees aren’t truly disconnecting. Three-quarters said they were still available during their time off, and 71% reported working outside of their expected hours. The boundaries between rest and work continue to blur.
Who’s Comfortable Setting Boundaries? Not Everyone
While 62% of executives said they feel very comfortable setting boundaries with work, that number drops significantly among those lower down the ladder. Just 38% of middle managers and 41% of employees felt the same level of confidence in enforcing limits on work expectations.
This disconnect may be fueling silent stress. Employees are increasingly working additional hours or staying online after hours out of fear of missing expectations, even during leave periods.
Sleep, Tears, and Silent Burnout
A staggering 92% of employees said their sleep is at least occasionally negatively impacted by work, highlighting the all-hours mental load many are carrying. Remote workers and U.S.-based employees also reported higher emotional strain — more than half of U.S. employees and 75% of remote workers said they have cried at work.
These findings suggest that while working from home may offer flexibility, it can also heighten feelings of isolation and pressure.
Connection and Culture Still Matter
Despite these challenges, the survey found glimmers of hope where companies invest in belonging. Nearly 60% of employees involved in employee resource groups (ERGs) reported feeling a greater sense of psychological safety and belonging. Nearly half said they built meaningful community connections through these groups.
The data also pointed to what helps retain talent. The most valued benefits among employees were those that supported team and culture building, as well as professional development and upskilling.
Supporting Wellness Means More Than Time Off
Mental health support isn’t just about offering days off — it’s about making sure those breaks are respected. As the Headspace findings show, when employees feel pressure to remain available or push through burnout, time off becomes another form of work.
The path forward includes creating safer workplace cultures, supporting boundary-setting at every level, and making room for genuine connection.
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