Demonstrating Commitment To Employees During Global Pandemic
By Heidi K. Aringer, Cardinal Stritch University Health and Wellness
COVID-19 has resulted in myriad changes for every facet of our lives – personally and professionally, no matter where we live and work. This global pandemic has touched every corner of the world. It is very likely that we know someone who has tested positive for the coronavirus, so this issue is hitting close to all of our homes.
As we all navigate this unprecedented time, it is paramount to demonstrate commitment to the physical and mental health of our colleagues. Employees who are mentally and physically healthy will contribute more to work production as well as will foster a positive work culture for all employees. Organizations and businesses also need to be committed to employees’ physical and mental health to ensure employee retention.
When executives lead by example and practice their own health and wellness, it shows a commitment to these important elements and encourages employees to do the same. Executives who pause for lunch, take walk breaks, or appropriately use their vacation time shows these activities are important and valued by the organization. In turn, this encourages employees to do the same and adds to their own health and wellness. Aside from these actions, executives can directly communicate the expectations for employees to utilize personal and company resources to improve and maintain their health and wellness.
In the Cardinal Stritch University Health and Wellness Center, we make great efforts to normalize mental health counseling and familiarize our students with services offered. Executives should make similar efforts to normalize Employee Assistance Programs and ensure employees are knowledgeable about the resources available to them. Executives should first familiarize themselves with the services their company has so they can be prepared to talk to employees about options if a question should arise. Key benefits of EAPs such as confidentiality and insurance coverage should be reinforced. Executives should also be trained to be aware of language and signs that an employee might need help. This allows them to create a caring space and promote the health and wellness of their employees. Paying attention to language and the company culture around mental health is also important. If an executive jokingly refers to an employee’s work habits as “OCD,” it can diminish the importance and seriousness of mental health. Overall, it’s important for executives to familiarize, normalize and be able to talk about EAP benefits to help reduce stigma and increase use.
In times of crisis like what we are experiencing, people can lose sight of caring for themselves in an effort to help others. While on one hand an organization can appreciate an employee’s efforts, on the other hand it’s important for that organization to remind employees about their own wellness so they can continue making an impact. For most, COVID-19 is an unprecedented experience that comes with many changes, challenges and fear. A company’s commitment to health and wellness during this time reminds employees that they are appreciated, valued and cared for. These challenging times call for agility and innovation from employees and a company/organization committed to its employees’ health and wellness will keep those employees mentally and physically well so they can continue to have a powerful impact.
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