Workplaces everywhere are placing more emphasis on employee wellness.
“No organization can expect to foster a positive culture without healthy employees. Employees need to feel their best – physically, mentally and emotionally – in order to contribute to a positive culture.” – Forbes
Here are 4 neglected wellness categories that might be impacting your bottom line.
Poor Sleep/Lack Of Sleep
Lack of sleep and poor sleep quality are the leading causes of employee burnout. Poor sleep habits can impact both your physical and emotional health.
“Don’t get enough sleep, and your productivity suffers. You’ll have less energy and react slower. You’ll feel less creative and focused, and have difficulty making decisions and solving problems.” – Tuck.com
This infographic depicts the impact of poor sleep hygiene on the globe’s major economies:
It’s no longer considered a badge of honor to burn the midnight oil and ‘get by’ on only two hours of rest. We now know it’s more sleep, not less, that leads to success in business and in life!
Poor Mental Health
Employee mental health is perhaps the most overlooked wellness category in recent years. Since poor mental health is often difficult to detect, it can be hard for employers to get ahead of any issues.
However, “while tackling mental health can be challenging, employers and HR professionals are in a powerful position to help change attitudes and offer a support system.” – Forbes
Some ways employers can intervene include:
- encourage conversations about what good mental health looks like
- increased awareness and reduce the stigma in the workplace
- do regular mental health check-ins with employees
- provide training on proper mental health practices
- lead by example!
Employers that put the psychological and emotional health of their employees first create a positive space where work and overall wellness can thrive.
Poor Physical Health
Businesses lose millions of dollars every year due to the poor health of their employees.
“…poor health costs the U.S. economy $576 billion a year, according to new research. Of that amount, 39 percent, or $227 billion is from “lost productivity” from employee absenteeism due to illness or what researchers called “presenteeism,” when employees report to work but illness keeps them from performing at their best.” – Forbes
Poor posture, repetitive strain, seasonal flu, and other minor and major workplace ailments are just a few of the reasons why employees might not be as productive as you’d like. It’s important to place an emphasis on good physical health in order to encourage a strong, productive workforce.
Poor Interpersonal Relationships
There are few things more stressful than having poor interpersonal relationships at work. Many employers would rather fire a high-performing but toxic employee, rather than have them impact the productivity of the entire team.
“As it turns out, avoiding toxic workers is still better for the organization in terms of net profitability, despite losing out on a highly productive employee. Avoiding a toxic employee… enhances performance to a much greater extent than replacing an average employee with a rock star.” – Talent Management & HR
We spend upwards of 7 to 8 hours a day with colleagues, so it stands to reason people who like their peers also have more overall job satisfaction. Employers should encourage team-building exercises and coworker support in order to foster better interpersonal relationships among their staff.
“In many ways, employee wellness is a foundation for a positive corporate culture. Leaders should ensure employees have the resources, tools and on-site healthcare opportunities they need to live their healthiest life – inside and outside of the office.” – Forbes
A focus on wellness is an important preventative measure. It ensures your team is happy, healthy and consistent. When you put health first, everyone stands a better chance of showing up and putting their best foot forward!
If you have questions or would like more information, I’d be happy to help. Please send an email, and my team will get in touch with you!