Three “Wellness + Workplace” Takeaways from the 2023 Global Wellness Report
The workplace wellness conversation features prominently in the recently released 2023 Wellness Trends, from Global Wellness Summit. It was one of 12 wellness trend focus areas highlighted in the report. In the section it designates as “wellness + workplace,” the report curates a host of insights that speak to the future of the workplace. Here are three big takeaways:
The High-Risk of Burnout is Costing Organizations
The report notes the increasing work-life blur for workers (as demonstrated by the rise of hybrid- and remote-work models) has led to an increasing risk of burnout. The prevalence of employee burnout is making companies focus much harder on its people, staying attuned to their overall well-being, particularly their sustained mental health.
From the report: “Companies will have no choice but to address the realities of workload as more studies confirm the astronomical costs of employee burnout.”
Health Investments Make Business Sense
Throughout the report, many health interventions are highlighted as strategies that can boost employee happiness, satisfaction and well-being. Significantly, the report notes that organizations have shifted in their view about implementing these measures – thinking of them not as costs, but rather as investments that pay back.
From the report: “Looking even further into the future, we believe the next era of work is one of reform. One where company investments in wellness aren’t seen as a sacrifice, but as a win-win for both workers and businesses.”
A More Holistic Approach to DEI
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), the report says, will continue to play a significant role in retaining and attracting talent, with organizations now moving faster to adopt strategies to be more inclusive. For example, the report calls out a move toward better, more targeted benefits, such as better fertility benefits or menopause PTO for women. As part of its forecast, the report also says, “Trans and gender-nonconforming employees will see greater resources, too, with inclusive healthcare now recognized as an essential tool to attract diverse talent.”
From the report: “Inclusivity will become recognized as a key component of wellness. Think office designs for the neurodiverse and even more benefits specific to race, gender, and religion.”
