1. Increased Focus On Mental Health
“The pandemic has put mental health in particular into the spotlight, and mental wellness apps have seen significant spikes in usage as people look for support online. Investing in remote mental health benefits can support employees when they’re back in the office, too.” –Fond.co
Covid-19 has put a spotlight on mental health like never before. With the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic, organizations have had to put focus on mental well-being like never before. The new normal of working from home, social distancing, and lockdowns have made it essential for employers to take a proactive approach to supporting their employees’ mental health.
Now more than ever, organizations need to get creative in finding ways to support their employees’ mental well-being, and it’s not just the “right thing to do” but it’s also a necessary business move. Happy and healthy employees are more productive, engaged, and less likely to jump ship for greener pastures. So as an employer, take a deep breath and educate yourself on ways you can make mental health a priority in your organization.
2. The Holistic View Of Workplace Wellness
“Employee Experience is a business initiative and requires cross-functional involvement of key stakeholders. Companies that adapt to a more holistic view of workplace wellness will soon realize no one department alone can solve the puzzle.” – Forbes.com
Employers need to take a holistic view when looking at supporting their employees’ mental health. This means considering the various factors that can impact an individual’s mental well-being, such as work-life balance, job satisfaction, and access to mental health resources. Employers should also be aware of the potential emotional and mental challenges that come with remote work, and actively provide support and resources to their team members to help them manage these challenges.
One way to do this is by implementing employee assistance programs that provide access to counseling and therapy services, training managers on how to recognize and support employees who may be struggling with their mental health, and implementing wellness sessions that can support employee wellbeing.
Additionally, employers can create a culture that promotes mental health and well-being by encouraging open conversations about mental health and providing opportunities for employees to connect with one another.
Overall, employers need to take a comprehensive approach when supporting their employees’ mental health, looking at various factors that can impact mental well-being, providing access to mental health resources, creating a positive culture, and promoting work-life balance. This can help to build a more resilient and productive workforce.
3. Employees Are Paying Attention To Employers Who Are Falling Short In Terms Of Wellness Perks
According to MetLife, “41% of employees feel their employer does not currently offer benefits or programs that help support or improve their wellbeing during this challenging time.”
“Across industries, employers have an opportunity to be a source of support for employees facing unprecedented challenges by offering tools and resources to address their immediate concerns.” –HRexecutive.com
There is a growing trend among employees for demanding wellness perks at work. Many employees are now recognizing the importance of maintaining their physical and mental well-being and are looking for employers who prioritize and support their well-being. In fact, surveys have shown that many employees consider wellness perks as a top priority when evaluating job offers and that they are willing to choose an employer that prioritizes their well-being over one that doesn’t.
Employees are now demanding access to on-site gyms, fitness classes, and wellness programs, as well as mental health resources such as counseling services and employee assistance programs. Additionally, employees are also looking for flexible work arrangements that allow them to better balance their work and personal life.
In addition to the benefits for the employees, employers who offer wellness perks can benefit from increased employee satisfaction, engagement, and productivity.
Virtual Wellness Initiatives You Can Introduce To Your Staff Today:
- Include a “Wellness Tips” section in your company’s internal newsletter, highlighting insights from trusted health and wellness websites
- Introduce a “Mindful Monday” culture at your firm where all work should be done asynchronously. This will give your employees the opportunity to center themselves and maintain a focused mind before any upcoming interactions during the week.
- Invite a certified chair yoga instructor to guide your team on easy stretches they can do without needing to get on a yoga mat or put on workout clothes.
- Introduce Twello virtual wellness classes that can allow time for employees to focus on their mental well-being during their workday.
