How to start an employee wellness program

This June will be the fifth annual National Employee Wellness Month, which means now is a better time than any for businesses to focus their efforts on the health of their workers. Workplace wellness affects things like employee attendance and engagement, so a health program is as beneficial to employers as it is to workers.

Implementing employee wellness initiatives may seem like an overwhelming task to some companies, but even the simplest changes can make a difference. According to the Employee Wellness Month website, the most popular programs in workplaces around the country are ones that support physical activity, quitting smoking and health risk assessments.

Health risk assessments are an easy yet effective program to implement. They will identify potential issues for workers so they can make steps toward improvements. Each online test only costs about $5 to $15 per employee, The Wall Street Journal reported. However, assessments should be optional, and it is very important they remain confidential.

Promoting smart eating habits is another great place to start. Offering fresh fruit is an excellent initiative, and according to EHS Today, the antioxidants in blueberries help combat stress. Businesses can also clean out candy and other sugary snacks from vending machines and replace them with healthier foods.


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