In a world where employee wellness encompasses both mental and physical health, the focus on prioritizing well-being in the workplace has become more important than ever. Following the release of the Surgeon General’s Framework for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being in 2022, it is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a greater emphasis on mental and physical wellness.
A 2021 report from Mind Share Partners revealed that a significant portion of respondents felt that workplace conditions had contributed to mental health challenges. This underscores the importance for workplace leaders to prioritize employee health to not only improve sentiment but also impact business performance positively. The correlation between feeling well and performing well is a straightforward logic that many businesses are beginning to recognize.
At Horatio, CEO Jose Herrera has made the employee experience a central focus by supporting mental and physical wellness equally. Providing on-site mental health counselors and an immersive gym and running track within the office space, the company promotes a culture that values employee well-being. As workloads increase and society moves rapidly, Herrera offers tips for founders to support mental health rigorously and routinely, as well as making physical health a priority.
By acknowledging the importance of mental health and breaking stigmas around addressing it at work, founders can create a culture that values emotional and psychological well-being. The American Psychological Association’s 2023 Work in America Survey highlighted the significance of psychological well-being for workers and the value of organizations that provide support for mental health. Forward-thinking leaders who model good mental health practices and emphasize work-life balance can foster a culture of excellence in mental health practices within their organizations.
Supporting physical health is also essential for overall well-being, and founders can empower their teams by making physical activity a cornerstone of their company culture. By incorporating on-site gyms, encouraging team workouts, and hiring qualified practitioners or trainers, founders can empower employees to take control of their physical health. A founder’s personal wellness journey can have a domino effect on the entire organization, impacting productivity, performance, and morale.
In a Gallup survey from 2021, only one in four U.S. employees strongly agreed that their organization cares about their overall well-being. To be among the companies that prioritize communal wellness, founders must take the lead in creating a culture that values both mental and physical health. By prioritizing their own well-being and creating opportunities for their organization to celebrate wellness, founders can create a stronger and more resilient workplace for all team members. Ultimately, the well-being and success of employees are intrinsically linked to the commitment of founders to prioritize communal wellness.
