In today’s work environment we understand that a holistic and adaptable approach to workplace wellness, especially mental health - is essential. The shift toward hybrid work has reinforced the need for accessible, flexible solutions that meet diverse employee needs. As organizations continue to navigate these challenges, prioritizing well-being remains key to fostering a resilient and thriving workforce.
Gallup recently identified workplace well-being as a top organizational priority, highlighting its growing importance among executives. Although workplace wellness efforts have increased, mental health and emotional well-being among U.S. adults remains low. Job stress is noted as a major contributor to the decline, according to Wellhub. Wellness benefits have been shown to improve employee engagement and well-being, but access to these programs remains a challenge for some. Wellhub’s research reveals that 79% of employees with access to wellness programs actively use them, demonstrating strong demand for such benefits. There is an understandable link between offering wellness programs and employees feeling valued by their organization.
This year, employers will need to consider challenges such as worsening employee mental health, limited accessibility to wellness initiatives, and the importance of fostering a caring culture to enhance the effectiveness of their wellness programs.
Workplace wellness initiatives are designed to raise awareness, provide education, and encourage employees to adopt healthier lifestyles. Many organizations may already feel like they are doing everything they can - offering benefits, wellness challenges, fitness apps and classes, educational resources, screenings, and more—but it still may not be enough to drive results or make a meaningful impact.
So, what more can organizations do? Consider the ideas below when reviewing your wellness strategy for 2025.
- Establish an Employee Assistance Program
We are seeing a huge wave of clients moving toward stand-alone mental health programs and moving away from EAP’s tied to life insurance and disability. An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential workplace service that helps employees deal with work-life stressors, whether it’s family issues, financial concerns, relationship problems, and even drug or legal concerns. Establishing an EAP demonstrates an organization’s commitment to their managers’ and employees’ wellbeing, reducing stress and the consequences that come with it, from absenteeism to poor productivity.
- Review and Enhance Communication Channels
Communication is the backbone of any organization. Ensuring all team members, including managers, have clear, open lines of communication with each other and with leadership is essential to stress management. Regular check-ins, feedback systems, and open-door policies should also be in place to encourage transparency and dialogue, allowing managers to express concerns freely.
- Promote Physical Health and Fitness
Whether through gym memberships, fitness challenges, or group classes, these initiatives make it easier for employees to maintain their physical health and reduce stress in a healthy way. Further wellness workshops, health screenings, and nutrition talks can help foster a health-conscious culture.
- Host Mental Health Workshops & Train Leaders to Support Well-being
While managers and supervisors are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between employees and employers, their impact on well-being policies and procedures can be lost without proper training to implement and sustain them. Organizing mental health discussions and programs can empower managers with the knowledge and skills to manage stress effectively. These initiatives can cover topics such as stress management techniques, successful coping strategies, mindfulness practices, and more to create a supportive environment that recognizes the importance of mental wellness.
- Create Stress Reduction Zones
Last, but not least, employers can create designated areas within the workplace where employees can go to decompress and recharge. These stress reduction zones could be equipped with comfortable seating, plants, natural light, and materials for relaxation practices, such as yoga mats or meditation cushions. Encouraging teams to take short breaks in these areas to practice mindfulness, meditate, or simply take a moment of quiet can be incredibly beneficial for mental health, helping reduce overall stress levels in the workplace.
When employees feel supported and understood, they are more engaged, less likely to experience burnout, and more likely to thrive in both their professional and personal lives. Building a holistic, employee-centered wellness initiative is essential for organizations wanting to cultivate a healthier, more productive workforce.
CGO can provide tailored resources, workshops and training to create a workplace environment that aligns with the unique needs, preferences, and expectations of the employees. Contact our Employee Wellness Manager, Amy Zucchero, for more information.
Questions? Contact us at info@GoCGO.com.
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