Integrating Wellness Programs into the Workplace
In a post-pandemic world, employees are searching for mental health resources and ways to balance their workloads. According to the American Psychological Association, 77% of workers reported feeling stressed at their jobs over the last month. Considering the impact of wellness on retention and performance, employers can foster a healthy environment by normalizing and supporting their employee's health. Here are three ways you can integrate wellness programs into your company.
Wellness initiatives
One way to support employees is to offer insurance for therapy. According to APA, only 43% of companies offered insurance that covered mental health or substance abuse resources. Your company can also enroll in an EPA (Employee Assistance Program). In this situation, an employer can pay a fee directly to a provider or through a third party to give employees access to speaking confidentially with a therapist who can provide support for work or family issues. Thirdly, companies may consider wellness initiatives like gym membership discounts or encouraging exercise through company-wide events like exercise challenges through apps or daily breaks for walks.
have the conversation
Allowing employees to talk about mental health and having an open-door policy lets employees know they are not alone. Some companies host workday wellness seminars, inviting speakers to come and talk about workplace challenges and tips to stay healthy. When communicating with employees about their mental health, maintain empathy and understanding.
lead by example
Senior leaders are often the last to take vacations. Set the example of work and life balance by prioritizing time off. Burnout can become a culture. When management takes scheduled time off and encourages employees to do the same, it sends a message that says leadership values rest. Offer your employees the flexibility to take a mental health day, and vacation days, and to take care of their families as needed.
show empathy
Treating employees with respect and fairness goes a long way in supporting their wellness journey. Put yourself in the shoes of an employee. Seek to understand their stressors. Leading in this way will create a company culture that people want to work for.
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