A comprehensive analysis of workplace mental health surveys conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA), examined by treatment centre Villa Oasis, has revealed a troubling contradiction. Although taking time off offers clear mental health benefits, many American workers continue to face significant burnout, largely because workplace barriers prevent them from accessing the time they need to recover.
Data from both organisations point to widespread strain. According to NAMI, 52% of employees reported feeling burned out at some point in the past year, while American Psychiatric Association figures show 42% experienced burnout within just the past six months. Despite recognising the benefits of time away, nearly half of working adults (44%) say they worry about being fired or facing retaliation if they request mental health leave.
“This data paints a clear picture of American workers caught in a mental health bind,” said Dr Michelle Beaupre, LCSW, clinical director at Villa Oasis. “A repeating work routine is not always beneficial for our physical and mental health. The more time we spend in the office, worrying about ongoing projects and being social with work colleagues, the more we start feeling mounting pressure and the first signs of burnout. That’s why many companies should encourage employees to take vacations and do so regularly so that workers don’t get burnt out and become less productive.”
The analysis identifies several key patterns. Workers are fully aware of the benefits of taking a break: APA data shows that after a holiday, 68% of employees report a more positive mood, 66% feel more energised, and 57% experience reduced stress. Yet, these benefits tend to be short-lived, with nearly two-thirds of employees saying the positive effects vanish within days of returning to work.
Many employees also feel unable to take advantage of available mental health support. While 67% of workers say they know how to access mental health care through their employer, 44% fear professional consequences if they take time off for it, and 39% worry about facing stigma if they seek care.
That stigma remains deeply entrenched. Although 74% of employees believe mental health discussions are appropriate at work, just 58% feel comfortable sharing their own concerns. The numbers drop even further when it comes to speaking with HR (39%) or senior leadership (28%).
Work-life boundaries are also increasingly difficult to maintain. Almost half (48%) of American workers say they “always” or “sometimes” struggle to disconnect from work at the end of the day, compounding stress and contributing to chronic burnout.
Dr Beaupre underlines the importance of properly switching off: “Vacation serves as a longer period of time to get rest, recharge, and switch off from office worries. That’s why it’s important to take vacations properly to make sure they benefit our physical and mental well-being. Firstly, it’s important to delegate projects and set up out-of-office emails to make sure no one contacts you during your time off.”
The report also highlights a disconnect in perceived support. While 78% of employees believe their direct manager or supervisor cares about their well-being, just 51% believe the same of senior leadership. Access to resources remains inconsistent, with only 31% reporting sufficient mental health coverage through primary care, 30% having access to an Employee Assistance Program, and 28% with access to telehealth counselling services.
“Vacation days are limited, and that’s why we need to learn to stay in the moment, take in all experiences, and allow ourselves to recharge. Then, vacation time becomes a very healthy routine that contributes to our overall health as we heal not only physically but also mentally,” Dr Beaupre concluded.
