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Back in November we posted these infographics showing the prevalence of mental illness in the workplace. And in March, we posted an article showing the detrimental effects that poor mental health can have on work performance.

In a new article from Employee Benefit Adviser, Cort Olsen shows that 8 in 10 employees (83%) surveyed by Aon Consulting rank mental health as the most important part of employee wellness programs. It was the highest rating for any of the health categories.

Senior wellness consultant at EPIC, Craig Schmidt, agrees saying that while all of the health categories (i.e. mental, physical, social, financial) are linked and affect each other, the foundations of many wellness problems are rooted in mental health. Schmidt says, “employees who maintain a positive state of mind can have a better chance of making better financial decisions and maintaining a physically healthier lifestyle.”

Often people consider financial troubles as the root of a lot of suffering, but Schmidt says mental health is even more important than financial health. A person might have a lot of money, yet still feel depression. While our recent post shows the importance of holistic wellness programs that integrate multiple areas of health, this survey shows that employees want mental health as a top priority, and experts agree.

That being said, it is important to not only create these programs, but also to get high participation rates. Often wellness programs focused on mental health can carry certain stigmas making people less likely to join. Employers should do what is necessary to break down these negative stereotypes and encourage their employees to sign up.

For tips on how to design and execute an effective and sustainable wellness program, read this post with best practices from the Harvard Business Review.