As recent U.S. policy changes impact workers nationwide alongside rising stress levels and mental health challenges, Workplace Fairness and Elevated Coaching & Consulting are calling attention to the urgent need for psychological safety and well-being in the workplace.
According to Mental Health America’s 2024 Mind the Workplace report, three-quarters of U.S. employees experience high work-related stress, impacting their sleep and personal relationships. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that while 75% of employers believe their workplace supports mental health, only 44% of employees agree. Additionally, 94% of workers report chronic workplace stress, with 99% acknowledging its toll on mental well-being.
Psychological safety—the ability to speak up without fear of retribution—is a key factor in reducing workplace stress and fostering healthier work cultures.
“Workers must feel safe to express concerns and access mental health resources without stigma,” said Edgar Ndjatou, Executive Director of Workplace Fairness. “Without psychological safety, employees struggle in silence, leading to burnout and decreased productivity.”
Factors contributing to poor employee mental health include excessive workloads, lack of managerial support, and unclear expectations. The rise of remote work has also blurred work-life boundaries, exacerbating burnout and isolation.
“Emotional intelligence and trauma-informed leadership are essential for supporting psychological safety and employee well-being,” said Kylie van Luyn, Founder of Elevated Coaching & Consulting. “Leaders must take intentional steps to create environments where employees feel respected, heard and valued.”
Addressing these challenges requires commitment from employers. The two organizations have collaborated on a The Elevated Workplace, a training for employers and organizations on cultivating psychological safety and well-being, belonging and legal compliance in the workplace. Learn more here.
About Workplace Fairness
Workplace Fairness is a nonprofit dedicated to educating workers on their rights and advocating for fair treatment. Through resources, outreach, and advocacy, it empowers employees and promotes equitable workplace policies.
About Elevated Coaching & Consulting
Elevated Coaching & Consulting is a global leader in workplace psychological safety, specializing in emotional intelligence training and trauma-informed leadership to help organizations build supportive and mentally healthy workplaces.
