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The COVID-19 pandemic changed the world more than any event in recent history, significantly impacting the health and well-being of the American workforce and the economy. As a result, the inextricable link between individual health and productivity, business performance, and economic prosperity is clear, and now is the time for employers to more actively engage and support the mental and physical health of employees.
In a recent survey by The Economist Intelligence Unit, commissioned by Cigna, both executives and non-executive employees agree that worker well-being is fundamental to business success. Executives in particular view productivity as the top result of a healthy workforce, with more than 90% seeing investments in employee health and wellness having a direct impact on financial performance. Most executives and employees believe that a healthy workforce is critical to economic vitality; 90% of respondents say companies that prioritize health and well-being will recover faster than those that don’t.
The survey also emphasized the importance of mental health. The combination of fatigue, burnout, and stress was recognized as the top barrier to business growth. In addition, 80% of workers reported feeling emotionally drained by work. Many continue to struggle with the impacts of isolation, disconnection, and blurring lines between work and home due to the pandemic, and more people are seeking care for stress, anxiety, and depression.
Employers can play a leading role in addressing the increased need for health and well-being support. This means more than providing health benefits and wellness programs; businesses also need to build a culture of health designed to encourage employees to engage in those programs and their personal well-being. This culture should be created with strong leadership commitment and employee involvement, as well as encompass both physical and mental health, reduce stigma and support greater work-life balance.
As the country continues to manage the complexities of the pandemic, it is vital for employers to invest in the well-being of their most valued asset — their people. Healthy, productive employees represent a true competitive advantage for Vermont businesses, and help drive a robust economy.
Find out more about the positive impact of employer-sponsored health plans, as well as The Economist Intelligence Unit’s exploration of how a healthy workforce drives economic vitality.
JENN MOTTA
Chief Operations Officer
Cigna New England