Employee mental health concerns cost United States workplaces hundreds of billions annually due to presentee-ism, absenteeism, and other costs. It’s estimated that one in five American workers experiences a mental health challenge each year. The stigma associated with mental health creates a “don’t ask, don’t tell” workplace where employees aren’t connected to treatment resources and business productivity suffers. The majority of HR professionals aren’t trained to identify mental health conditions, talk about mental health with employees or make referrals to sources that could help. International research has shown that engaging the workforce in specific mental wellness activities will increase protective factors in individuals and decrease workplace distress while boosting productivity and income. This presentation will help participants understand the major mental health issues affecting American workers, discuss best practice strategies for mental wellness in the workplace, and identify and prepare for potential scenarios regarding workplace mental health.