‍The current economic climate in our country is creating significant anxiety and stress for many in your workforce.

As groceries, housing, and other basic needs become more expensive, many of your employees may find themselves experiencing a financial squeeze that affects their mental health and well-being. Even those who appear to be managing well might be quietly struggling with financial concerns that affect their focus, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

To help you support your team during times of uncertainty, we’ve compiled resources designed to help you start the conversation.

The Mental Burden of Money

Most people feel stressed out about finances, from their personal expenses to the economy at large. Today, it’s impossible to ignore the connection between money and well-being.

• More than half of Americans say they live paycheck to paycheck.

• 76% of employees say financial stress negatively impacts their work output.

• Employees lose over seven hours of productivity per week due to financial stress.

• Employees' financial stress costs U.S. employers $183 billion annually.

• Financially stressed employees are two times as likely to be job-hunting.

Free Resource: Conversation Guide for Managers

Although financial concerns can profoundly affect mental health, initiating these conversations with your team may feel challenging. But as a manager, you help shape workplace culture and can set the tone for open, supportive conversations.

Download the guide for five tips to help you communicate more intentionally — whether about money, current events, or everyday challenges — so you can better support your team.

Go Further: Create a Mental Health Policy

A written workplace mental health policy articulates your company’s commitment to preventing and addressing mental health issues among your employees. It’s an important way to communicate your values, establish company norms, and prioritize transparency in benefits, treatment, care, and support options.

Just Announced: Workplace Mental Health Action Summit

Join us on May 1 for the Workplace Mental Health Action Summit, hosted by Health Action Alliance and One Mind.

This virtual event will bring together business leaders, HR professionals, and mental health experts across industries. Learn how bold, people-first leadership can help business leaders navigate the economic shifts, technological advancements, and political pressures facing the workforce.

Event Details:
📅 Date: May 1, 2025
🕒 Time: 2-3 p.m. ET / 11 a.m.-12 p.m. PT
💻 Virtual via Zoom

In 2012, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed March 20 as International Day of Happiness to recognize happiness and well-being as universal goals and acknowledge their recognition in public policy. This resolution was initiated by Bhutan, a country that adopted the goal of “Gross National Happiness” over Gross National Product in the early 1970s. 🇧🇹

The World Happiness Report is hosting several events hosted by researchers, policymakers, and members of the public to celebrate; check out all the events here.

‍Editorial Note: This content was originally published as part of HAA's newsletter. You can stay informed and receive our newsletter directly by joining the mailing list.