Beyond perks: creating a company culture of mental wellbeing for programmers
Morgane Oléron
As their name indicates, programmers write computer programs. They are the ones busy writing, re-writing, updating, improving, and iterating code.
Codes are essential in tech as they are how humans and machines communicate. They are the source of everything from software and websites to smartphones and other everyday appliances.
In an industry always looking to advance, solve problems, be more efficient and innovate, programmers must keep up with an unachievable agenda, impacting their mental health and wellbeing.
In situations like these, surface-level perks like free bananas or a hammock in the“restroom” won’t cut it.
Only by fostering a sustainable mental health culture can companies help their programmers navigate demanding positions.
Poor Mental Health Among Programmers
We have seen in previous articles that the tech industry is in the top 5 sectors with the highest rate of mental health issues.
Digging deeper within the industry, we realise that not all jobs are treated equally.
Programmers and Mental Health in Tech
Developers/programmers seem to have it worst overall, facing specific pressures around technostress(the need to keep themself updated due to rapidly changing technologies constantly), the added responsibilities beyond coding(security issues…), the high expectations and frequent overtime due to understaffed teams.
According to a survey published in April 2024 by Developer Nation, 83% of developers reported feeling burnt out at some point in their careers, 54% felt stressed financially about the future, and 84% had to work overtime at least occasionally in 2024.
While there seems to be progress in the mental health department, with 76% of developers making an effort to self-evaluate their state of mind regularly, only 44% would deem their work-life balance“ok” and 35% feel not in control of their day.
83% of developers reported feeling burnt out at some point in their careers
Perks for programmers that miss the mark
What happens too often, especially in the tech industry, is that organisations consider surface-level perks as ways to improve mental health.
Things like on-site massages or yoga classes, while relaxing in the short term, do not address chronic stress or workload issues.
Similarly, ping pong or foosball tables and other dart boards do not solve employees’ anxiety.
They may even increase stress when placed in an area that creates noise pollution for employees.
Even free healthy snacks and beverages, while appreciated, do not significantly contribute to increased mental health states.
As we saw above, most employees work long hours and do not have time to take breaks for these activities.
In addition, these perks focus on temporary relief instead of addressing the real issues in the workplace. It can, at times, even be associated with“carewashing”.
So, what perks do Developers want?
Developers want to work for organisations that follow promises and avoid gimmicky perks.
More flexibility and control of their time and location
Wanting more flexibility and the ability to work remotely comes down to a sense of control which directly impacts one’s mental health: data shows that many people, and developers in particular, consider themselves to be more productive when working from home(with fewer interruptions and distractions from colleagues and being able to adapt to their productivity peak), they also see it as a way to improve their work/life balance(no commute) and even save money(commute, lunches…). Finally, being remote also means having the ability to take on professional opportunities anywhere in the world.
Because their work is online, being remote is evident for most developers. Yet, some companies are still reluctant to fully“let go”. This might be a mistake in the long run, as 75% of developers already work remotely, and some even say they would consider leaving if they were not allowed to do so anymore.
Ergonomic set-up
In keeping with remote work, programmers are growing more aware of the impact of sitting at the desk all day on their bodies and, in time, mental wellbeing. Ensuring the proper work set-up at home(standing desks, ergonomic mouse and chair…) represents an investment and employer support is often highly appreciated among tech workers.
Ensuring the proper work set-up at home
Career Growth & Mentorship
Lack of career growth opportunities is often cited as one of the top three reasons developers would leave a position.
Beyond a clear progression path, adding mentorship programs, skill development budgets, and industry conferences are considered valuable perks.
Mental Health Support
Because the tech industry is a high-speed and stress-inducing environment, organisations can make a difference by offering mental health support beyond basic insurance or a meditation app membership. Investing money and time to fight stigma, create an open communication culture, train staff and managers and offer professional support that is easily accessible are“perks” that are truly valued because they can create systemic changes.
perks that create systemic changes.
Flexible Benefits & Customisation
A key element is to stay flexible and to avoid the“one-size-fits-all” as much as possible.
Everyone’s private and family life looks different. By offering flexible and customizable benefits as a perk, the company ensures everyone will feel acknowledged and valued. Some prefer childcare subsidies, while others would rather spend that money on training or wellness. By staying open to feedback and understanding your employees’ needs, a company has many more chances to offer perks that hit the spot.
In 2025, it is time to ditch the“carewashing” playroom and invest in what employees truly need and demand to support their work productivity, overall wellbeing, and mental health.
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Morgane crafts compassionate, engaging content that makes mental health conversations more human and accessible. At Siffi, she combines storytelling with strategy to foster a culture of care and connection in the workplace.
Morgane Oléron
