Why Employee Wellness Programs Matter More Than Ever

The last few years and a global health pandemic have changed the workforce in ways many could not have predicted. Employees are much more aware of how their employers spend resources and whether they are getting any benefit from those resources. And the post-pandemic workforce has left long-held positions in unprecedented numbers, no longer content to stay with employers who fail to invest in them.   

That’s why it’s more important than ever that organizations take a proactive approach to creating a culture that truly strives to promote overall wellness for its members. Mental health and wellness is important for all employees, but as we’ve seen in recent years, this is especially true for helping professionals including healthcare workers, teachers, and mental health therapists.

There are many companies that have made strategic and forward-thinking changes to better care for their employees. Organizations like Google and Glassdoor come to mind. But despite that, many companies are still struggling to make effective changes within their organizations.   

At the last count, around 52% of U.S. companies offer some form of wellness program. But that leaves a staggering 48% who do not. However, a report from the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported that among businesses that have more than 50 employers, that percentage rose to 80%. Is that good enough? We don’t think so, and here’s why.   

Wellness By the Numbers  

Consistently using recognition to foster wellness among employees can increase engagement, reduce burnout, and lower turnover.   

Employees who participate in corporate wellness programs are more likely to lower their health risks in seven different categories, including high blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight, nutrition, stress, physical activity, and tobacco use.   

Recent studies have found that almost 60% of employees want greater health and wellness offerings from their companies.   

Investing in employee health and wellness can reap an ROI of between $1.40 and $4.60 for every dollar spent – in the form of lower health insurance costs and increased productivity.   

The above statistics are just a small sample of research and studies that have shown that corporate wellness programs have numerous benefits – for both the employees and the organization itself.  

Professionals working in stressful environments are at increased risk for depression. This includes (but is not limited to) healthcare workers, therapists, and teachers. The tremendous amount of stress in their daily work activities can quickly lead to burnout and even progress to physical illness. And it certainly doesn’t make you want to get up and go to work everyday. 

The Benefits of Your Corporate Wellness Program  

Increases Employee Engagement  

Employees who feel like their organization is investing in their health and well-being are more likely to be engaged with their jobs and willing to work harder to meet company goals.   

Increase Productivity  

Employees who are healthier and have less day-to-day stress are better able to focus on their work. This leads to fewer sick days, increased mental clarity, and better focus throughout the day.   

Increases Employee Satisfaction  

Employees who feel like they’re receiving recognition, gratitude, and the resources they need to thrive (both in the workplace and in their personal lives) are overall happier and more satisfied with their jobs.  

Decreases Turnover  

Employees who are engaged and feel supported by their organizations are less likely to look outside of those companies for something better. Health and wellness programs make employees want to stick around, which decreases turnover and saves companies money.   

Improves Performance  

When employees are less stressed and healthier, they simply perform better. That means better decision-making, better attendance, and better follow-through. All these things contribute to an increase in performance across the board. 

Improves Reputation  

Companies who are investing in their employees make the news for positive reasons, while those who drag their feet often become the topic of negative press. Not to mention that your current and former employees are more than willing to share their experiences with others. Making sure those experiences are positive will improve your company’s reputation. 

Makes Hiring Easier  

Workers are looking for employers who offer a full menu of support resources. Health insurance, retirement packages, and paid time off are the three big ones. But companies who go above and beyond the obvious by offering full health and wellness programs will get more high-quality applicants.   

Decrease Healthcare Spend  

An increase in ROI and reduced healthcare costs are a big draw for organizations. Employees who have access to the resources they need to manage their physical and mental health are less likely to actually need expensive healthcare interventions. Add to that the increase in productivity and performance, and you get an investment that truly pays you back.   

The Bottom Line  

Today’s employees, and the culture in general, put great emphasis on wellness. They understand the importance of taking care of their physical and mental health, and they are no longer willing to put up with an employer who doesn’t share the same outlook.  

Companies that don’t put time and effort into developing a wellness program for their workers will find the cost of doing business much higher going forward.   

If you’re a professional struggling with stress in your career, it’s vital that you take steps to ensure your physical and mental wellness. And if your career path is no longer allows you to maintain wellness, it may be time for a career transition. Don’t feel tied to something just because that’s where you are right now. Every role has transferrable skills. Make a change that will benefit you!