August is National Wellness Month, a time to prioritize self-care, manage stress, and build healthy habits. For employers, it’s also a great reminder of how they play a significant role in their employees’ well-being, from the company culture, work-life balance, and even the benefits they offer. Employee well-being isn’t just about offering gym memberships or free fruit in the break room. It’s about creating an environment where employees can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here are some practical ways employers can support their teams not just this month but year-round
Promote physical health
- Encourage movement through walking meetings, lunchtime strolls, or step challenges
- Offer gym discounts or reimbursements, or access to wellness programs
- Share desk-friendly exercise tips or short workout videos
- Host active company events like relay races, sports games, or charity walks
Focus on nutrition
- Stock the break room or vending machines with healthy snack/drink options.
- Share simple, budget-friendly recipes in internal emails or newsletters
- Organize cooking class events (either in person or virtually) that feature healthy meals
Build a Culture of Work-Life Balance
Remind managers to respect boundaries after work hours
- Discourage having email and other work apps on employee phones
- Offer flexible schedules or remote work options when possible
- Providing ample vacation time and leave options, including parental leave
- Encourage employees to take lunch and short breaks away from their desks
Provide mental health support
- Create spaces for mental breaks, complete with activities like puzzles or games
- Adding more plants to the office has been shown to reduce stress and even increase productivity (just be mindful of allergies)
- Host stress management workshops
- Offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or access to counseling
- Foster open communication through regular one-on-one check-ins
When employers invest in physical, mental, and emotional wellness, they build a stronger, more engaged team. National Wellness Month is the perfect time to put these ideas into action and to commit to making wellness a year-round priority.
