Anxiety has become one of the most widespread and costly mental health conditions in the U.S. workforce, according to a Sept. 18 report from the Cigna Group.
The findings are based on survey and claims data from 5,000 U.S. adults, recorded in December 2024. This survey assessed health, vitality, social needs, productivity and social media attitudes and behaviors across generations.
“Employers can play a critical role in mitigating the impact of anxiety on their employees. Investing in employee mental health through comprehensive benefits, a supportive workplace culture, and thoughtful policies and accommodations, employers can enhance employee vitality and drive organizational success,” Jason Youngblood, director of behavioral clinical account management at Cigna Healthcare said.
Nearly 30% of American workers report having anxiety, either self-identified or diagnosed by a clinician. Among insured individuals, those diagnosed with anxiety account for just 14% of the population but drive 27% of total medical, behavioral and pharmacy expenses. The condition is now the third most common chronic condition among workers, following hypertension and high cholesterol.
The report highlights the disproportionate toll anxiety takes on job satisfaction, retention and performance. Workers with anxiety are twice as likely to report burnout, and only 55% of those with anxiety felt capable of their roles.
Younger employees — specifically millennials and Generation Z — report the highest levels of anxiety and are more likely to leave jobs for mental health reasons. Despite widespread employee coverage, many in this group remain unaware of available behavioral health benefits due to lower insurance literacy.
Researchers identified two high-impact employee interventions: improving manager support and making workforce accommodations accessible. Employees with anxiety who feel understood by coworkers report higher satisfaction, lower stress and greater willingness to exceed expectations. Flexible work hours, voluntary social activities and consistent manager communication were cited as effective support strategies.
“By fostering a culture of understanding and support, we’re not only improving lives, but also strengthening our businesses through greater vitality, employee retention, productivity and satisfaction,” Mr. Youngblood said.
