Employee wellness has become a top priority for employers in recent years, and as workplaces continue to evolve and adapt to changing employee needs, a recent study from CoAdvantage found that three big trends are shaping the future of employee wellness.
The first trend is a focus on mental health. With the pandemic taking a toll on employees' emotional well-being, many employers are investing in resources to offer support. More than 91% of companies are increasing their mental health offerings in response to this trend, CoAdvantage found. This includes providing access to qualified mental health counseling and therapy providers (rather than just "life coaches" or "career coaches"), offering mental health days, and creating a culture of openness and support around mental health issues. By prioritizing mental health, employers can help employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to take care of their well-being – which ultimately encourages further productivity and success.
The second trend is a focus on physical health. Many employers recognize the importance of physical wellness in creating a healthy and industrious workplace. The global wellness market is expected to skyrocket to $7 trillion by 2025, and companies need to keep up or be left behind. Many are beginning of offer means for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as discounts on gym memberships or meal plan kits, creating opportunities for employee participation in team-related fitness activities, and investing in ergonomic equipment for office workers. By prioritizing physical health, employers can create a workplace culture that promotes healthy habits and prevents burnout and absenteeism.
The third trend is a focus on work-life balance. As employees seek greater flexibility and autonomy in their work, employers see the importance of supporting employees' work-life balance. This includes creating flexible work schedules, offering telecommuting options, and providing opportunities for work breaks and vacations. By prioritizing work-life balance, employers can create a workplace culture that supports employees' well-being and allows them to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
