Benefits Think Why gratitude and support are the missing pieces in workplace well-being

Published 5 Min Read

Male and female employees shaking hands, others standing, smiling
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The U.S. workplace is at a tipping point. Roughly two-thirds (66%) of employees say they feel disengaged, and nearly a fourth (22%) are experiencing burnout amid a swirl of economic and political uncertainty. For younger workers, in particular, disengagement is rooted in a deep-seated feeling of being undervalued and unsupported.

Rather than spending billions on corporate wellness programs, employers can thoughtfully leverage a simpler, yet profoundly human solution: a shared sense of connection. Research and practice suggest that small, intentional acts of gratitude and support are more than just “feel-good” measures — they’re the bedrock of resilience, well-being, and a thriving workforce.

Shaye-Ann Hopkins
Behavioral researcher

Shaye-Ann Hopkins is a behavioral researcher at Duke University, where she works with design tools and interventions that enhance wellbeing. Her work focuses on designing and testing behaviorally … Read full bio

Kahini Shah
Behavioral researcher

Kahini Shah is a behavioral researcher at Duke University. Her work primarily focuses on leveraging insights from human behavior to design products and systems that promote financial wellbeing. She … Read full bio


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