Even though you may not be aware of it, stress symptoms harm your health. You could assume that your nagging headache, insomnia, or decreased productivity at work are all symptoms of an illness. However, stress could be the real culprit.

Stress can also affect your body, thoughts, feelings, immune system, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being, leading to long-term health issues like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

 

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According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association in 2020, 64% of U.S. adults reported that work was a significant source of stress in their lives. It is quite evident that work-related stress is a significant contributor to stress in people's lives. To address this issue, companies can play a critical role in helping their employees maintain good health and well-being. One of the most low-effort ways that companies can adopt is the implementation of an Occupational Health and Wellness program (OHC). Here are some points that OHC should focus on:

 

1. Expert-led health and wellness sessions

Companies can organise regular sessions with experts in the field of health and wellness. These sessions can include education on healthy eating, stress management, and lifestyle-related diseases. This knowledge can help employees make better choices and lead healthier lifestyles.

 

Related story: 6 Ways team Leaders Can Boost Employees' Morale

 

2. Provide healthy food options in the canteen

Providing healthy food options in the canteen can help employees make better dietary choices. Companies can offer a range of healthy meal options, including plant-based options, to cater to different dietary requirements.

 

3. Access to an onsite fitness centre

Offering access to an on-site fitness centre can encourage employees to be more physically active because of ease of access. Employees can use the gym before or after work, during lunch breaks, or at other designated times.

 

Related story: 5 Advantages Of Having An Onsite Fitness Center

 

4. Access to mental health resources

Mental health is an integral part of general health and well-being. Companies can provide access to on-demand mental health resources like counselling, stress management workshops, and support groups.

 

5. Team wellness goals

Setting team wellness goals can create a sense of community and encourage employees to work together towards common goals. These goals can include walking a certain number of steps in a day, no sugar days, no processed food days, and more.

 

Related story: Making Workplace Wellness A Priority, A UR.Life OHC Success Story

 

6. Encourage active breaks

Encouraging employees to take active breaks during the workday can help reduce stress and promote physical activity. Companies can organise activities like chair yoga, 15-minute walk after lunch, walking meetings, desk exercises, and quick stretches to keep your body proactive.

 

7. Access to health risk assessments and screenings

Companies can provide access to health risk assessments and screenings to prevent and manage chronic/lifestyle diseases. These can include monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol checks, and diabetes screenings.

 

Related story: Common Health Problems From Working At A Desk That UR.Life OHC Can Help With

 

8. Scheduled visits by a doctor on health days

Companies can organise scheduled visits by specialist doctors on health days. These doctors can offer consultations on heart health, general health, endocrinology, and other health-related issues.

 

9. On-site access to resources to manage chronic conditions

Companies can offer on-site resources to manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. These resources can include access to doctors, emergency care, facility to schedule blood work/ sample collection, etc, and more.

 

Related story: Managing Celiac Disease With UR.Life OHC

 

10. Access to smoking or substance abuse programs

Smoking and substance abuse can have significant negative health impacts. Companies can provide access to programs to help employees quit smoking or substance abuse.

 

11. Encourage sports

Encouraging sports and athletic events can also be an excellent way to promote health and wellness among employees, with company athletic events such as football, cricket, and running clubs providing an opportunity for employees to stay active and build camaraderie.

 

Related story: Workplaces Need UR.Life OHC Substance Abuse Program

 

Implementing an OHC program can be a low-effort way for companies to promote the health and well-being of their employees, helping to reduce stress levels and minimise the risk of health problems. By investing in the health of their teams, companies can create a happier and more productive workforce, while also demonstrating their commitment to employee wellbeing.

 

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With the UR.Life Corporate Wellness programme, we help you to invest in your well-being through seamless interventions and targeted medical treatments. Our holistic wellness approach caters to all aspects of your well-being. We ensure that you can bring your whole self to work.

With our medical professionals by your side, routine health check-ups will never be an issue. Advanced laboratory technologies back UR.Life’s Occupational Health Centers (OHC), and with highly qualified experts/technicians, we’re committed to delivering trusted and quality recommendations, modifications and advice to you.

Click here to learn more about the UR.Life Corporate Wellness programme and unlock better health.