Rising medical costs and economic worries are taking a toll on American workers, according to a recent study by MetLife. The 2025 U.S. Employee Benefit Trends Study shows that employees are feeling less healthy, less productive, and less engaged than before. The report indicates a decline of 5% in holistic health, productivity, and engagement among employees, with many expressing concern about their financial situations.
The survey highlights that 77% of employees cite increasing medical expenses as a major source of stress, while 68% point to economic uncertainty. In these challenging times, employees are looking to their employers for support. A significant 81% of workers believe their employer should work to build trust in the workplace. Interestingly, employees are 1.5 times more likely to trust their employers compared to other institutions.
This growing expectation places a heavy responsibility on employers. MetLife’s findings suggest that building trust can lead to better workplace outcomes. Employees who feel trusted and cared for by their employers report being 3.8 times more likely to feel holistically healthy, 2.4 times more engaged, and 1.9 times more productive than those who do not experience such support.
To foster this trust, MetLife recommends that employers create a supportive work culture and enhance the benefits experience. Recognizing employee achievements and promoting transparent leadership are essential steps in this process. The right mix of benefits, along with a positive experience in utilizing them, can significantly boost trust and improve overall workplace outcomes.
The study also reveals that employees who have positive experiences with their benefits are 2.4 times more likely to feel holistically healthy and 2.1 times more likely to trust their employer during economic downturns.
Todd Katz, head of Group Benefits at MetLife, emphasized the importance of demonstrating care for employees. He noted that in light of current economic challenges, there is a unique opportunity for employers to strengthen the sense of care and trust within their organizations. By focusing on improving benefit experiences and workplace culture, employers can create high-trust environments that lead to better performance.
For more insights, you can view the full 2025 Employee Benefit Trends Study on MetLife’s website.