Lincoln Financial and IBI Highlight Gaps in Workplace Mental Health Support — Lincoln National Corporation (Lincoln Financial Group)

Event summary

Lincoln Financial and IBI released a whitepaper on August 18, 2026, outlining mental health challenges in the workforce and employer strategies to address them.
The report found that 70% of women rate their mental health as good or excellent, compared to 83% of men, and younger employees (18-29) report the highest use of mental health days (77%).
Despite 75% of call center employees having access to mental health benefits, fewer than half have used them due to stigma, lack of time, or awareness issues.
The study surveyed over 1,500 U.S.-based call center employees in March 2025, analyzing demographic, geographic, and occupational variables.

The big picture

Lincoln Financial's collaboration with IBI underscores the growing emphasis on mental health in the workplace, particularly as employers seek to enhance productivity and retention. The findings highlight persistent barriers to accessing mental health resources, despite increasing investments in benefits. This trend reflects broader industry shifts toward holistic employee well-being as a competitive advantage.

What we're watching

Awareness Campaigns: How Lincoln Financial's efforts to improve communication and education around mental health benefits will impact utilization rates.
Demographic Targeting: Whether tailored mental health strategies for women and younger employees will close the gaps in support and comfort levels.
Psychological Safety: The pace at which employers can foster cultures of openness and trust to encourage employees to seek mental health support.