The Future of Employee Wellness Programs: What to Expect in 2023

If we were to go back by a decade or so, mental health was THE elephant in the room - both boardrooms as well as living rooms. People chose to not talk about it, and even if they did, the listeners often did not know what to do about it! But over time, through reinforced awareness and mainstream coverage, people have started warming up to such conversations. 

Thankfully technology and business’ perspective towards mental health has evolved too. HR being the business arm that advocates and upholds employee welfare has been a key catalyst for this evolution. And in the wake of the current crisis, safeguarding employee mental health has become one of the top priorities for HR. 

Defining workplace wellness beyond wellness programs

Workplace wellness refers to the efforts of an organization to create a healthy and supportive work environment that promotes the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of its employees. Workplace wellness programs are becoming increasingly important as organizations realize the impact that stress, unhealthy behaviors, and other factors can have on employee well-being and productivity.

Examples of workplace wellness measures

1. Health screenings and assessments

These are opportunities for employees to receive check-ups and evaluations of their overall health status.

2. Fitness and exercise programs

These can include things like gym memberships, group exercise classes, or other opportunities for employees to be physically active at work.

3. Health education and training

This can involve providing employees with information and resources to help them make healthier choices and learn about different aspects of health and wellness.

4. Stress management and relaxation techniques

These can include things like yoga or meditation classes, or other opportunities for employees to manage stress and improve their mental well-being.

5. Healthier food options in the workplace

This can involve offering healthier meal and snack options in the workplace cafeteria or vending machines, or providing resources for employees to make healthier food choices.

6. Employee assistance programs

These are resources that provide support and counseling to employees who are facing personal or work-related challenges.

7. Mental health support and resources

This can involve providing employees with access to mental health professionals, as well as resources and information about mental health and wellness.

8. Work-life balance initiatives

These can include things like flexible work schedules, telecommuting options, and other efforts to help employees achieve a better balance between their work and personal lives.

Why employee wellness “programs” are not working well

There are a number of reasons why workplace wellness programs may fail to make the desired impact. Some common barriers to the success of these programs include:

1. Lack of employee engagement:

If employees are not interested in or motivated to participate in the program, it is less likely to be effective.

2. Limited resources:

If an organization does not have the resources to implement and maintain a comprehensive wellness program, it may be difficult to achieve the desired results.

3. Insufficient support from management:

If management does not fully support the program or does not actively encourage employee participation, it may be difficult to get the program off the ground.

4. Inability to address root causes of unhealthy behaviors:

If a wellness program does not address the underlying causes of unhealthy behaviors, it may be difficult to sustain long-term changes in behavior.

5. Lack of follow-through:

If there is not enough follow-through or accountability to ensure that employees are meeting their wellness goals, the program may not be effective.

6. Poor program design:

If the program is not well-designed or tailored to the needs and preferences of the employee population, it may not be as effective as it could be.

What are the steps to ensure workplace wellness with AI and people analytics

There are a number of ways that modern technologies such as AI and people analytics can be used to support workplace wellness. Here are a few examples:

1. Predictive analytics:

People analytics tools can be used to analyze data about employee behaviors, attitudes, and outcomes, and to identify patterns that may indicate potential health risks. This data can be used to develop targeted interventions and support programs to help employees maintain good health and well-being.

2. Health tracking and monitoring:

Wearable technologies and other devices can be used to track and monitor various aspects of employee health, such as physical activity, sleep patterns, and stress levels. This data can be used to identify patterns and trends that may indicate potential health risks, and to provide personalized recommendations for improvement.

3. Virtual wellness resources:

AI and other technologies can be used to create virtual wellness resources, such as virtual fitness classes or meditation sessions, that employees can access from anywhere. This can be particularly useful for employees who are working remotely or who have limited access to in-person wellness resources.

4. Personalized coaching and support:

AI-powered coaching and support systems can be used to provide personalized guidance and support to employees as they work towards their wellness goals. These systems can use data and analytics to understand individual needs and preferences, and to provide tailored recommendations and feedback.

Importance of concentrating on workplace wellness

There are a number of reasons why organizations should concentrate on workplace wellness in today's difficult times. Some of the main benefits of investing in workplace wellness programs include:

1. Increased productivity:

Employees who are healthy and well-rested are likely to be more productive and engaged in their work. By investing in wellness programs, organizations can help employees maintain good health and well-being, which can lead to increased productivity and performance.

2. Improved retention:

Employees who feel supported and cared for by their organization are more likely to stay with the company. By investing in wellness programs, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their employees and create a positive work culture that supports retention.

3. Reduced absenteeism:

Employees who are in good health are less likely to take time off due to illness or other health-related issues. By investing in wellness programs, organizations can help employees maintain good health and reduce absenteeism.

4. Better morale:

Employees who feel supported and valued by their organization are more likely to have higher morale and be more engaged in their work. By investing in wellness programs, organizations can create a positive work culture that supports employee well-being and morale.

5. Cost savings:

Investing in workplace wellness programs can help organizations reduce their healthcare costs and other related expenses. By addressing the root causes of unhealthy behaviors and conditions, organizations can prevent more costly health problems from developing in the future.

Conclusion

Overall, modern technologies such as AI and people analytics can be powerful tools for supporting workplace wellness by providing employees with access to resources, tracking and monitoring their health, and providing personalized guidance and support.

By addressing these and other issues, organizations can help their employees maintain good health and well-being, which can lead to increased productivity, morale, and retention.