Employers can take a proactive role in supporting employee mental health during the holidays through early intervention, communication and making wellness resources easily accessible, says Lindsey Gage-Cole, senior vice-president of client and member operations at GroupHealth Benefit Solutions.
“For employees, the holidays can mean increased workloads, balancing holiday planning with work obligations and the pressure of meeting end-of-year deadlines. Many experience financial and mental strain due to increased expenses and family obligations . . . [which] can leave employees feeling overwhelmed.”
Read: How employers can support employee financial wellness during the holidays
Implementing proactive support is essential for tackling mental-health concerns before they develop into more severe conditions or result in absenteeism, she adds. “Paying attention to signs of stress before employees enter the holiday season enables managers to take the necessary steps where needed. Key indicators can include shifts in behaviour such as declining productivity, higher absenteeism or symptoms of burnout like irritability and exhaustion.”
By addressing these issues early, managers can help prevent prolonged absences, which can be costly for organizations in terms of lost productivity and recruitment expenses. Early support can also reduce the severity of symptoms, shorten recovery times and boost employee engagement.
Read: Employers can use ‘Blue Monday’ to reset workplace mental-health strategies
In addition, managers should create an open environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns, she says. “Regular check-ins, especially in the weeks leading up to the holidays, can help employees feel supported and allow managers to gauge how workloads are handled. This approach not only benefits the employee’s well-being but also supports the organization.”
To help employees prepare for the return from the holidays in January, Gage-Cole suggests encouraging workers to map out their year ahead, including scheduling vacations early, so they can have something to look forward to. This can be in addition to offering comprehensive wellness resources that support employees’ mental health during a difficult time of year.
“Holiday closures often leave many without access to essential resources, making it difficult for people to find the support they need during critical times. Having a provider that offers an integrated platform with 24/7 access to telemedicine, virtual pharmacies and comprehensive wellness services can make a significant difference.”
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