80% of workers believe the work environment is toxic

A survey of over 1,100 American workers found that 80% of them reported working in a toxic work environment. Workers are reaching their limits, with 57% saying they would rather quit than stay in a toxic workplace.

Monster Poll: Mental Health in the Workplace

The survey was conducted by Monster , a company that provides career change support services, and focused primarily on mental health.

Of the workers surveyed, 71% described their mental health at work as 'poor' (40%) or 'fair' (31%), with only a minority describing it as 'good' (20%) or 'excellent' (9%).

Among the factors contributing to poor mental health, 59% cited a 'toxic company culture,' 54% cited a 'bad boss,' 47% cited a 'lack of growth opportunities,' 47% cited a 'heavy workload,' and 33% cited a 'lack of staffing.' Of those who described their mental health as 'bad' or 'fair,' 51% said their mental health would improve if they removed toxic employees.

Regarding the company's response, employees were pleased with the fact that 'time off for medical examinations and therapy is allowed' (50%), 'there is a generous paid leave system' (29%), and 'there are specific mental health measures in place' (23%).

When workers were asked about their priorities, 63% said they would put their mental health above 'work they're proud of,' 43% said they would turn down a promotion, and 33% said they would even turn down a pay increase for the sake of their mental health.

When asked, 'What would you choose instead of staying in a toxic work environment?', 57% said 'I would quit,' while other responses included 'Being fired' (42%), 'Taking a pay cut' (29%), 'Working on weekends' (23%), and 'Giving up a year's vacation' (14%).

Overall, 80% of respondents said their workplace environment was toxic, up 13 percentage points from 67% in the same survey in 2024. Additionally, the number of people who said their company's mental health support was insufficient increased from 78% in 2024 to 93%, highlighting the urgency for companies to prioritize mental health measures.