Since the COVID-19 pandemic, companies have become increasingly aware of the direct connection between mental health and employee productivity. The disruption and uncertainty caused by the pandemic highlighted how anxiety, burnout, and emotional distress can impact focus, engagement, and overall performance. As a result, more organizations now see supporting mental health and preventing burnout as a business imperative.
While more companies are offering mental health benefits to their employees than ever before, research shows that these programs often fail to reach the people they’re designed to help. A 2025 study by Forrester Consulting commissioned by Spring Health reveals that 36% of employees can’t access their mental health benefits at all, and those most in need are least likely to engage with existing support.
This data can be seen as an opportunity for HR leaders to rethink how mental health support is delivered to their employees. By prioritizing high-acuity care and fostering a culture that breaks down stigma, companies can support their employees through traditional wellness programs like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), as well as innovative options like meditation and mindfulness apps.
Top 5 Way to Prevent Workplace Burnout
Burnout is when a worker feels chronic workplace stress that they are unable to manage on their own. It can seriously impact employee well-being and productivity, making it difficult to stay focused and motivated in their role. A recent Gallup survey found that one in four employees experience burnout either “very often” or “always” and 41% of employees are stressed.
According to the World Health Organization, common signs of burnout include feeling depleted or exhausted, being distracted at work, and experiencing negative feelings toward work. Here are five ways that employers can help prevent workplace burnout:
- Promote Work-Life Balance
Encourage reasonable work hours, flexible scheduling, and time off to help employees recharge and maintain personal well-being. - Provide Access to Mental Health Resources
In addition to comprehensive health benefits that cover mental health counseling, it is a good idea to offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), meditation apps, and mindfulness exercises to support emotional resilience and stress management. - Train Managers to Recognize Burnout
Equip leaders with the tools to identify early signs of burnout and create a culture that encourages communication and support. - Set Clear Expectations and Manage Workloads
Avoid overloading employees by hiring enough employees to shoulder the work, setting realistic goals, and providing the resources needed to succeed without unnecessary stress. - Foster a Supportive Workplace Culture
Encourage peer support, recognize achievements, and create an environment where employees feel valued and connected.
Empowering Employees with EAPs, Meditation, and Mindfulness Apps
Let’s face it: work is often stressful and many employees feel anxious, burnt out, and unmotivated because of it. In addition to preventing burnout and providing traditional mental health programs, employers have an opportunity to support their employees’ well-being in additional ways, including mindfulness apps and meditation at work.
EAPs
EAPs are employer-sponsored services designed to support the mental, emotional, and overall well-being of employees. These programs typically offer confidential access to professional counselors and a range of resources to help employees navigate personal and work-related challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, and financial concerns.
When executed effectively, EAPs offer a wide range of benefits for both employees and employers. For employees, they provide early intervention and professional support that can reduce stress, prevent burnout, and improve emotional resilience that boosts mental health, job satisfaction, and engagement. For employers, EAPs can lead to lower absenteeism, reduced healthcare and workers’ compensation costs, and higher productivity. Overall, EAPs are a valuable tool for creating a healthier, more stable, and more productive workforce.
Mindfulness Apps
One powerful concept that has gained traction in the corporate world is mindfulness, which is the practice of being fully present in the moment with openness and without judgment. Research has shown that mindfulness can reduce stress, improve focus, and boost emotional resilience; all of which are valuable in the workplace.
To help employees incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines, many companies are turning to mindfulness apps. These digital tools offer guided meditations, breathing exercises, sleep support, and stress management techniques. The apps also empower employees to proactively manage stress, stay focused, and feel more satisfied and engaged at work. When paired with other mental health resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mindfulness apps can become an essential part of a holistic approach to workplace well-being.
Meditation at Work
Short meditation sessions at work can offer powerful mental health benefits. Studies have shown that even a few minutes of mindfulness can help employees reduce stress, improve focus, and reset their mindset during a busy workday. These quick sessions can promote emotional balance, enhance clarity, and support better decision-making, which ultimately leads to a more productive, positive, and resilient workplace environment.
There are many ways to encourage meditation at work. Teach employees how to meditate and then remind them to do it on their own or schedule reminders to meditate together as a team once a day. A 90-second meditation session can also be added to the start or end of a meeting to set the tone and manage stress levels.
Seay HR Can Help Create Effective Mental Health Support
Seay HR provides a broad range of HR services designed to support your business’s growth and ensure compliance with all state and federal employer regulations. From conducting employee opinion surveys and providing analysis and recommendations based on the results to employee handbook development and on-site training and consultation, our team is here to help you in every aspect of human resources so you can get on with running your business.
Contact us today to explore practical solutions for supporting your team’s mental health and preventing burnout.
Please note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Seay HR makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the information contained herein.
Seay HR disclaims all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on the information in this article. Readers are solely responsible for their own interpretation and use of this information.
