- We all want to move on
and forget the worst of the pandemic as quickly as we can,
but it lingers on.
And we each have witnessed, heard about,
and experienced some tragedy or trauma
caused by the global COVID-19 crisis.
We also have all probably never been as aware
of the state of our own health.
Dealing with the deadly virus, coping with stress,
being locked down at home,
or under intense pressure on the front line,
not having access to the gym,
and baking as a key out to relief,
but now we are accommodating different arrangements,
access and options, and establishing new routines.
To support everyone's new healthy journey,
adopt an integrated approach to wellbeing,
enabling every one of your group
to adjust to new configurations and environments
at their own pace,
according to the different needs
wherever they are working from
so they can stay safe and feel safe.
Thoughts about health are automatically
part of everyone's daily work routine now,
especially as circumstances are still evolving
and new variants could possibly affect
current work policies and parameters.
Second, normalize conversations
about health-related struggles and strains,
which impact people's ability
to function properly in their jobs,
allowing them to be open about situations
they're dealing with or concerned about,
especially mental health issues.
De-stigmatizing is key for discussion, sharing,
and addressing possible issues before they escalate.
Younger generations, especially Generation Z,
were dealing with more stress and anxiety
before the pandemic, which continue at more elevated levels
than any other generation.
Third, highlight self-care regularly with all employees
and especially newer workforce entrants,
clearly identify available mental health
and other medical support,
restorative measures like pay time off
and encouraging reflection about personal triggers
or the stress indicators to watch out for.
These can give people comfort during shaky moments
or prompt them to get help.
Also, offer anonymously requestable materials.
This will make it easier for those seeking help with issues
they do not want to discuss openly.
Digitally available materials are easily provided
confidentially and securely,
giving people useful information to help them in the moment,
as well as possible discussion channels
to mental health experts
since telehealth services are much more accessible now.
Your approach to employee wellbeing
is best coming from a holistic point of view,
to consider all the health aspects
that they are dealing with based on the range of disruptions
they've been experiencing, from grief to financial stress,
food insecurity and isolation,
overwhelm and compromised immunity,
so many of which impact mental health.
Major advances in telehealth applications
now allow you to provide customizable content
and coverage in sophisticated ways
that align with people's needs wherever they are.
Supplying a comprehensive wellbeing program
will help everyone emerge stronger, healthier,
and more productive than before.