Communicating Your Workplace Wellness Priorities

As the months pass and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the way professionals work and companies do business, professionals’ levels of anxiety, depression and stress are rising to concerning levels. The seemingly endless months of isolation and remote work, coupled with increased demands of home schooling, housework, illness, family dynamics, limited social outlets and continuing external stressors have forced many of us to exist in a constant state of overwhelm, with little relief in sight.

Many companies have responded to changing circumstances by offering more programs and services from their health plan provider and/or employee assistance program (EAP). Some are adding back virtual programs from external vendors or even some offered by employees, such as meditation, yoga and healthy eating. Are your employees taking advantage of them? It’s critical to continue communications, reassuring staff that you’re investing in their overall well-being.

In return, employers that support emotional wellness and mental health are creating engagement and a more productive workforce. Communicate frequently and transparently about your new initiatives, what you are planning to launch, when and why. Consider inviting participants to share stories about their experience on your intranet and at department or all-employee meetings, so that others who resonate with their story also begin to participate.

Consistent workplace wellness communications serve the vital function of keeping all your employees—wherever they may work—healthy and engaged. Affirm your commitment to learning and growing together.

What have you tried and how did communications help meet your objectives?