The Six Employee Wellness Trends of 2023

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The landscape of employee wellness is evolving rapidly in 2023.

Organizations are prioritizing the well-being of their workforce more than ever before. Influenced by the age of digital transformation and changing work dynamics, companies are recognizing that nurturing employee wellness isn’t just a noble endeavor – it’s a strategic imperative for long-term success.

Are you looking to evolve your business to foster healthier, happier, and more engaged employees?

Here are the top employee wellness trends that you can leverage this year.

1. Holistic wellness programs

Holistic wellness programs address the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of employees. These programs go beyond traditional initiatives and include elements such as mindfulness training, nutrition counseling, financial wellness support, and access to mental health resources. By embracing a comprehensive approach to wellness, companies are empowering employees to thrive in all aspects of their lives. The result? A positive and resilient work environment.

My recommendations? Check out Financial Finesse and Facet for financial coaching resources, PeopleKeep for personalized benefit plan assistance, and New Wave Solutions for employee engagement solutions.

2. Flexible work arrangements

Recent events have accelerated the adoption of flexible work arrangements. Now, they are a vital aspect of employee wellness. Remote work, flexible hours, and hybrid models are now common practices that offer employees a better work-life balance, decrease commuting stress, and allow individuals to take care of personal responsibilities. Flexibility in work arrangements not only enhances well-being but boosts productivity and job satisfaction when leveraged well.

Unsure which flexible work arrangement works best for your company? Check out this overview from Indeed to learn more about your options.

3. Technology-driven wellness solutions

Advancements in technology have revolutionized how organizations approach employee wellness. In 2023, companies are leveraging digital platforms, wearables, and wellness apps to promote healthier habits and encourage positive behaviors. These tech-driven solutions help employees track their physical activity, monitor their sleep patterns, access personalized workout routines, and participate in virtual wellness challenges. With real-time data and personalized feedback, technology allows employees to make informed decisions and take control of their well-being in both the short and long term.

4. Mental health support and awareness

Mental health has emerged as a critical wellness concern in recent years, and companies are recognizing the importance of prioritizing mental well-being in their operations. By providing access to mental health resources, counseling services, and training programs to promote a supportive culture, leaders like you can actively raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce the stigma associated with seeking help, and encourage open conversations in the workplace. By addressing mental health, companies can nurture an environment where employees are supported and perform at their best.

My recommendations? North Andover Counseling Professionals offer “a non-judgmental and down-to-earth approach to therapy” that you can leverage today. Plus, check out my free directory of outsourced providers for a full list of companies that can help you expand your knowledge, capacity, and/or capabilities without overhead expenses or extensive training.

5. Employee assistance programs (EAPs)

EAPs have gained significant momentum in 2023, with organizations embracing them as a core component of their wellness strategies. EAPs provide employees with confidential support services, including counseling, financial advice, legal assistance, and stress management tools. These structured programs serve as a safety net for employees. This enables them to overcome personal challenges that may affect their well-being and work performance.

Want to learn more about EAPs? Read about the many benefits of EAPs in this article from TriNet. Plus, check out some of the top-rated EAPs in 2023, as evaluated by HR University.

6. Multiple listening channels

Finally, whether you already have these programs in place or are planning to adopt new ones, it’s crucial to create channels for your employees to provide feedback. Listening channels can include focus groups, surveys, and employee resource groups. By listening to your employees, you and other company leaders can show your commitment to well-being as a company value. As Epictetus said, we have two ears and one mouth to listen twice as much as we speak.

As organizations navigate the ever-evolving landscape of employee wellness, these trends highlight a shift towards comprehensive, technology-driven, and employee-centric approaches. By investing in holistic wellness programs, embracing flexible work arrangements, leveraging technology, prioritizing mental health, and implementing EAPs, companies can foster a thriving workforce.

A healthy and engaged workforce isn’t just beneficial for employees; it drives business success by enhancing productivity, minimizing absenteeism, and attracting and retaining top talent.

Let’s seize the opportunity to create workplaces where employees can truly flourish.

Jennifer Goldman, CFP®, is the founder and CEO of Andover, MA-based My Virtual COO. Jen brings 30 years of experience transforming over 1,000 service businesses to thrive. Her mission is to increase the health of businesses so they can provide knowledge and choices to more employees and consumers.