Mental health in the workplace: a social issue!

Announced as a "Grande Cause Nationale 2025" by the governments of Michel Barnier and François Bayrou, and highlighted by numerous public and political figures in recent weeks, mental health in the workplace has become a major issue of concern in France. It affects a significant proportion of the working population. Teal's annual barometer, broadcast on BFM TV , reveals alarming figures and a deterioration in employees' mental health, with only 55% feeling satisfied at work. A situation confirmed by the French Ministry of Health, which estimates that nearly 13 million French people, or around one in five, are affected by mental disorders every year. So what are we waiting for to free up the word, lift the taboos and really take on board the crucial subject of mental health in the workplace?

The French government's recognition of mental health as a major national cause in 2025 marks a significant step forward. This initiative aims to raise awareness of mental health issues throughout society, and encourage companies to adopt proactive policies in this area.

Mental health in the workplace: an alarming state of affairs

All recent studies paint an alarming picture of the mental health of French employees. According to the Empreinte Humaine barometer published in September 2024, 42% of workers find themselves in a state of moderate or high psychological distress, although this figure has fallen by 6 points on the previous year. Meanwhile, a survey conducted by ADP Research in October 2024 reveals that 61% of working people experience stress at least once a week, and 19% on a daily basis, up slightly on 2023. Studies are pouring in, and all point to the same conclusion: the health of employees, and of companies, is no longer up to scratch.

Mental health problems are the leading cause of absenteeism (22% of sick leave), and the cost of health-related problems is a major concern.The cost of mental health problems is €3,000 per year per employee. The impact on companies is enormous.

Julia Néel Biz, co-founder of Teale, recalled in the columns of Forbes: "The year 2023 marked a further deterioration in the mental health of employees in France. While mental health is priceless, it has a very real cost".

Impact on companies

Deteriorating employee mental health has direct repercussions on companies, notably in terms of absenteeism, lower productivity and increased "turnover", underlining the importance for organizations to adopt proactive measures.

While many factors are involved, working from a flexible workspace can offer a breath of fresh air for employees' mental health. These places, designed to encourage collaboration and break down isolation, add a valuable social dimension. Far from the isolation of the home or the sometimes burdensome rigidity of the traditional office, coworking lets you recreate informal interactions, benefit from a stimulating atmosphere and an environment that is often more peaceful. Some structures go even further by integrating wellness services (meditation, QWL workshops, sports sessions), helping to prevent burnout. In this way, a chosen, flexible and more humane working environment helps to reinforce a sense of control, freedom and fulfillment - essential pillars in maintaining good mental health at work.

Company initiatives

Faced with this situation, many French companies have set up initiatives to support the mental health of their employees , and have decided to invest in the field of prevention, notably through training in and day-to-day support, or by reimbursing - via their mutual insurance schemes - sessions with health professionals.

A 2024 Ipsos Predilife survey also revealed that 86% of employees would like their company to offer tools to combat stress and promote mental health. What's more, 90% of French employees consider Quality of Life and Working Conditions (QLWC) to be a priority.
Let's face it, employees' expectations in terms of mental health are high.
Accompanying employees through sport can also prevent and act on certain psychological disorders, and helps to create a healthier working environment.

It seems imperative that companies continue and step up their efforts to create working environments conducive to psychological well-being. This involves concrete actions such as training managers, setting up listening and support systems, and promoting a caring and inclusive corporate culture. Investing in mental health at work is not only a social responsibility, but also a strategic lever for the performance and sustainability of organizations.

Ø What impact do flexible workspaces have on your employees' well-being?