2023 Work in America Survey Highlights Urgent Need for Psychological Well-being in the Workplace

The 2023 Work in America Survey, conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), reveals significant concerns about workplace well-being among American employees. The survey indicates that 19% of U.S. workers perceive their workplaces as “very or somewhat toxic,” while 22% report experiencing workplace harassment—an increase from 14% in the previous year’s survey. This rise is partly attributed to more employees returning to physical workplaces, increasing face-to-face interactions where negative behaviors might occur.

The study underscores gender and marginalized groups’ heightened experiences of toxicity and harassment. Around 22% of respondents report having experienced or feared mental health harm at work, highlighting a pressing need for greater psychological support.

The survey deploys a framework inspired by the U.S. Surgeon General’s 2022 workplace wellness guidelines, focusing on five elements of well-being: safety, belonging, connection, growth, and work-life balance. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced psychological safety and belonging in workplaces. A substantial 92% of respondents consider employer support for employee mental health as very or somewhat important, emphasizing a desire for a psychologically healthy work environment.

Dennis Stolle, APA’s Senior Director of Applied Psychology, suggests that employers should avoid fostering an “always-on” culture, highlighting that just 40% of workers feel their employers respect time off. The study proposes that employers should recognize the significance of employee well-being in attracting and retaining top talent, shifting focus beyond conventional perks to the promotion of emotional and psychological health.