While 86 per cent of U.S. employers said mental health, stress and burnout are top priorities, only 25 per cent have already articulated and adopted a well-being strategy, according to a new survey by WTW.
The survey, which polled 322 employers, found while 42 per cent redesigned their employee assistance program in 2021, 39 per cent are currently planning or considering redesigning their EAP, including increasing limits on visits and expanding services.
Read: Health, well-being trends set to evolve for employees, employers in 2022: report
Nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) said they currently offer programs that target specific conditions for high-cost cases such as diabetes and depression and 27 per cent are planning or considering these programs. Almost another two-thirds (65 per cent) said they currently promote the use of mobile apps for physical well-being, while 25 per cent are considering the use of apps for this purpose.
More than a third (34 per cent) said they’re planning, or considering, setting objectives and tracking financial well-being programs at pivotal financial decision points for employees, such as having a new family/young children or buying a first house. Only 18 per cent of respondents currently track these programs. A third (33 per cent) said they’re planning or considering assessing their financial well-being programs for consistency with diversity, equity and inclusion values, while only 24 per cent currently makes these assessments.
And nearly half (47 per cent) have incorporated DEI priorities into their benefits plan design, while 37 per cent said they examine onsite perks to support new work arrangements. A third (32 per cent) of respondents are considering implementing both of these practices.
Read: Employer, employee views on well-being support shows major disconnect: survey