Mental fitness in the workplace: a smarter strategy for employee performance

Mental fitness is quickly becoming a buzzword in business circles—and for good reason. In today’s fast-paced work environment, mental fitness is just as crucial as physical fitness. For business leaders and HR professionals, understanding and spotlighting mental fitness is a strategic move that can help boost productivity, improve retention, and manage healthcare costs. 

What is mental fitness? 

Mental fitness refers to the ability to cope with stress, stay focused, adapt to change, and maintain a positive outlook—even in challenging situations. According to Stuart Lustig, M.D., M.P.H., National Medical Executive for Behavioral Health Strategy and Product Design, Cigna Healthcare, “Mental fitness is more than the absence of mental illness. Practicing mental fitness means to actively build cognitive and emotional strength, much like we train our bodies at the gym.” 

The cost of poor mental health

Absenteeism: A 2023 report from Gallup found that employees who report their mental health as “fair” or “poor” have ~four times more unplanned absences than their peers who report “good” or “very good” mental health. Projected on an annual basis, employees reporting fair/poor mental health are estimated to take approximately 12 days of unplanned absences, compared with 2.5 days for their more mentally fit peers.¹ 

Productivity: These missed workdays are estimated to cost the U.S. economy about $4.7 billion in lost productivity.i In addition to lost work days, a report in Fortune indicated 35% lower productivity for depressed workers who do not receive mental health treatment.²

Total medical costs: The National Institutes of Health has noted three-to-six-times greater total health care costs for people with both mental and physical health conditions.³

Why mental fitness matters

When people work on their mental fitness, they more easily recover from setbacks, are more resilient, and thrive in both work and life. Research conducted by Talkspace found that employees who engage in mental health therapy see a 36% increase in productivity.^iv According to the Centers for Disease Control, workplace wellness programs can have positive impacts including reduced stress and anxiety, and improvement in health risks.^v 

Prioritizing mental fitness isn’t simply good for employees—it’s a sound business strategy. A variety of research publications indicate ROI ranging from $2.73 to $6 for every $1 spent on wellness programs, primarily through reduced absenteeism, lower healthcare costs, and increased productivity.⁶ A CDC study suggests preventative screenings can cut absenteeism by 27%, while additional reviews indicate effective health and wellness programs can save up to 25% on absenteeism costs.⁷ “Employees who practice mental fitness are better equipped to manage workplace stress, which means fewer mistakes, less burnout, and a more positive work culture,” added Lustig.

Fitness for body and mind

Simply put, a healthy mind supports a healthy body, and vice versa. People who exercise regularly report better mood, sharper focus, and lower levels of stress. Other important lifestyle habits that support mental fitness include getting enough quality sleep, building meaningful social connections, and maintaining healthy nutrition, all of which contribute to a resilient mind and overall well-being.  

Sound can be another powerful tool in practicing mental fitness. “Scientific research has demonstrated that a variety of sounds and music can activate brain areas associated with memory, emotion, and attention, which can boost mood, promote relaxation, and enhance emotional regulation,” said Dr. Stuart Lustig. As Dr. Lustig explains, intentionally engaging with sound can help people reset, refocus, and build emotional resilience, making it a simple, accessible way to actively practice mental fitness throughout the day. 

Helping employees achieve mental fitness

Create a culture where employees feel safe discussing mental health without stigma. 

• Offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), workshops, and access to mental health professionals. 

• Support walking meetings, fitness challenges, or subsidized gym memberships to boost both mental and physical health. 

• Equip managers with the tools to recognize stress and support team members proactively.  

• Encourage employees to use mindfulness apps, take breaks, and set boundaries to protect their well-being. 

Employees can also take responsibility by setting realistic goals, seeking social support, and using company-provided resources. 

Employee resilience

Mental fitness isn’t a passing trend—it’s a vital component of a thriving, resilient workforce. By making mental fitness a priority, employers can foster happier, healthier teams and positively impact their bottom line.