Workplace Wellness

From Mental Health America
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/workplace-wellness

Do you Love or Hate your Job?

Loving or hating a job can cause more or less stress in life.  Did you know, 70% of those currently employed are searching for other jobs.

Less than one-third of Americans are happy with their work. Half of the workforce is “checked-out.”  Eighteen percent are unhappy with their current position with some even sabotaging the success of their workplace.  An unhappy or unhealthy work environment is bad for a business’ bottom line and bad for employees.

Studies have shown being unhappy with or unfulfilled by work can take a toll on our health, relationships, and even lifespan. Those in unhealthy work environments tend to gain more weight, have more healthcare appointments, and have higher rates of absenteeism. Stress from work can also impact their family life, mental health, and even increase risks for chronic illnesses and heart attacks.

So what separates the few who are excited about their work from the majority of Americans? While there are some differences among age groups and types of employment, a healthy work environment is key to job satisfaction. The happiest employees tend to include interpersonal relationships, commitment to the organization, and a sense of meaning or purpose among the parts of their job with which they are most satisfied. Conversely, those leaving their jobs tend to cite lack of respect, teamwork, and potential for growth among top reasons for quitting.

Top 5 Reasons for Happy Employees	Top 5 Reasons for Leaving Job
Relationship with co-workers Contribution of work to organization’s business goals Meaningfulness of the job Opportunities to use skills/abilities Relationship with immediate supervisor	Minimal wage growth Lack of opportunity to advance Excessive overtime hours A work environment that does not encourage teamwork A boss that doesn’t allow you to work flexibly

A healthy workplace is one where individuals feel valued and supported, provides a positive workspace, and shows respect for other aspects of a person’s life. If you’re uncertain as to whether your workplace is on the path to wellness, the signs below may provide some helpful tips:

1. Productive Atmosphere. Clean, functional and well-lit space. Good working relationship with all staff. Employees feel respected, appreciated, incentivized, and rewarded. Signs of intimidation, bullying, sexual harassment, and fear are absent.
2. Livable wage. Providing a livable wage encourages a committed and sustained workforce.
3. Reasonable accommodation. Employers and employees have to work collaboratively to identify reasonable accommodations (not special treatment) in the workplace for physical as well as mental disabilities. From changing physical work space and schedule to the use of interpreters or technologically adapted equipment, it can run the gamut.
4. Health, Wellness, & Environment. Provide a comprehensive health insurance plan including smoking-cessation, weight-loss, and substance abuse programs.
5. Open Communication. Keep the communication process transparent. Creating an environment of open communication contributes to a more energetic and productive workforce where all employees can feel invested in the company.
6. Employee Accountability. It takes two to make a healthy workplace. Employees have to come with a "can-do" attitude and be willing to support each other as well as management.
7. Management Accountability. Allow employees to provide work-related feedback to their supervisors. It can be anonymous to avoid the possibility of negative repercussions.
8. Work/Life Balance. We now live in a world where technology is available to keep us connected to work around the clock. Work options such as flexible scheduling, hoteling (reservation-based unassigned seating) or telecommuting ought to be implemented if applicable.
9. Clear & Positive Values. Be transparent and definitive about what the organization stands for. People in as well as outside of the company should have a good understanding of this.
10. Fitness. Offer a gym membership, fitness class or even just an exercise space that encourages employees to become physically active and stay fit. If possible, incentivize employees to access such services