With today being World Mental Health Day, now is a good time for companies to focus on the needs of their people. Remember, employees aren’t just workers – they’re real people with complex lives, emotions, and needs. Effectively attracting and retaining top talent means going beyond offering a paycheck — it’s about creating an environment where employees feel supported holistically, especially when it comes to mental health.

A growing talent trend I’ve noticed is the focus on non-traditional benefits that speak to the diverse needs of today’s workforce. These benefits not only improve retention but also create an inclusive atmosphere where employees feel valued, understood, and supported. Companies that embrace these benefits are better equipped to engage employees across all generations and life stages. That’s why so many leading organizations have already stepped up to the plate.

Here are some ideas that I tend to see working well.

Pet-Friendly Workplaces

With more employees returning to the office, pet-friendly workplaces are becoming a sought-after perk. Tech giants like Amazon and Google have long been known for their pet-friendly policies, allowing employees to bring their pets to work. This helps create a more relaxed atmosphere, where employees appreciate the flexibility in their pet-care options.

Integrating Mental Health Care

Perhaps one of the most critical non-traditional benefits is the increased focus on mental health. Companies like Microsoft and EY are pioneers in providing comprehensive mental health support, offering more than just basic wellness programs. These companies provide mental health days, access to virtual therapy, and wellness apps, which offer tools for meditation, stress management, and overall mental health improvement. Both companies also train their managers to have open conversations about mental health, fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking support without stigma. Another standout is Bumble, which closed its offices globally for a week to allow its employees to recover from burnout. This bold step highlights the importance of rest and recovery, especially in high-pressure industries.

Tailoring Benefits Across Generations

Generational differences also play a significant role in shaping employee benefits. Offering benefits like grandternity leave, as IBM does, allows older workers paid time off to celebrate becoming new grandparents. On the other hand, younger employees, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are often burdened with significant student debt. Companies like PwC and Aetna are helping alleviate this financial stress by offering student loan repayment support, which not only provides relief but also fosters greater loyalty and commitment to the organization.

The Power of Purpose-Driven Time Off

Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of giving employees time to recharge, grow, and pursue personal passions. For instance, Adobe and Netflix have implemented sabbatical programs and self-managed time off, while Salesforce offers time off for volunteering, which helps employees realize their sense of purpose. These benefits allow employees to focus on personal growth, well-being, and work-life balance — key factors in maintaining good mental health and sustainable work-life balance.

I’m really happy to see so many leading organizations supporting the mental health and well-being of employees. Of course, this requires more than surface-level solutions. By embracing non-traditional benefits, companies can showcase their commitment to putting their people first, which naturally supports talent attraction and retention.

World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to rethink how we support our teams, ensuring that we provide the resources, empathy, and understanding needed to help employees navigate their personal and professional lives. The benefits we offer can make all the difference in helping employees thrive.