3 tips to help your employees stress less

As stress increases, productivity decreases. That is what a recent study found while exploring the correlation between stress and work. How can employers support their employees in navigating stress and cultivating wellness? Let's explore several significant lifestyle stressors where employer support is essential.

Healthcare Support
According to a recent CNO survey, 85% of respondents have reported having some level of concern about their personal finances with one of the top stressors being medical events. Helping employees navigate the healthcare system effectively can reduce some of the stress that comes along with unplanned medical events. Consider offering support in:

• Finding In-Network Providers: Using in-network providers saves individuals and employers on health costs. Aid employees in navigating provider databases with readily available resources.
• Financially Managing HSAs: Encourage employees to effectively save for medical events and to reduce future stress through Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions
• Resolving Health Claim Issues: Help support employees discuss their claims with providers and navigate the insurance system and healthcare system to ensure accurate billing.
• Proactive Wellness: Offer proactive steps employees can take to take care of their physical and mental health. Offer guided meditations or simple exercise resources to promote a healthy lifestyle.
• Preventative Healthcare Screenings: Emphasize preventative care available through insurance programs that can help with overall well-being and unplanned health costs.

Mental Health Advocacy
Stress can cause inaction, low productivity, anxiety, and depression which can truly hinder employee wellness. Finding ways to advocate for and support employee mental health can be one step toward better stress management.

One way to champion mental health in your organization is to encourage employees to take paid time off (PTO). A study recently reported workers who use more vacation days are promoted almost twice the rate of people who use less. Taking breaks from work can improve productivity, creativity, and job performance. Consider offering competitive PTO offerings to promote employee wellness and improved mental health.

Another way to advocate for mental health is to support physical health. The two factors work hand-in-hand. Create walking challenges, philanthropy 5ks, or offer a database of exercise guides. Aerobic exercise is proven to be a form of relaxation. Finding ways to work in exercise to daily life has positive impacts on the body and mind.

Personal Finance Support
According to a recent survey, 87% of people reported stress came from the rise in prices of everyday items due to inflation. Finding ways to support staff in effectively managing finances could have a positive impact on stress levels, productivity, and overall well-being.

Assess the positive impacts of personal finance coaching sessions or one-on-one appointments with investment professionals. Look at implementing incentives to complete predetermined financial wellness programs. It has been reported that financial wellness program completion did improve employee retention rates by 53%. Take into account a few ways you could work these programs into your organization.

Enhancing stress management skills can positively influence your business. What actions can you implement to enhance your employees’ stress levels? Contact us to learn more about employee advocacy and creating competitive benefit packages.

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Optavise is a trusted partner, guiding employers and their employees through healthcare choices including voluntary benefits, benefits administration, and year-round advocacy services that reduce costs and increase benefits engagement.