Workplace wellness programs that prioritize mental health
How can a non-diet and weight-inclusive
approach to wellness benefit employees in the workplace?
Many workplaces promote, encourage and offer weight-based wellness programs to their employees. These programs typically focus on weight loss efforts and may be offered with the best of intentions, but they make an assumption that weight is an indicator of health (studies show that is not true). They also are based on the assumption that people who are living in larger bodies are less healthy than people who are living in smaller bodies.
In reality, research shows that you can be healthy regardless of your body’s shape or size and that intentional weight loss is more often than not, short-term and can lead to increased weight gain in the future. Not only that, but also weight-loss competitions by nature prioritize weight loss over health and can lead to increased risk of adverse health outcomes, body dissatisfaction, the development of eating struggles disorders and poor mental health.
I am delighted to offer opportunities for companies to bring my expert knowledge to their employees, so they can learn more about health and wellness information that is researched based and does not confuse weight with wellness or health. As a consultant for worksite wellness programs, my goal is to offer interactive seminars and workshops designed to engage, educate, and motivate employees to incorporate wellness into their lives, both in and out of the workplace.
“I believe that with deeper understanding and appreciation for mental health, individuals are better able to make real and sustainable changes in their lives that are truly health-supportive.”
What research reveals about Worksite Wellness Programs
Studies have indicated that workplace wellness programs generate major savings and benefits for companies and their employees: according to a research study in Health Affairs reported by Harvard researchers, for every dollar spent on wellness programs,
- Medical costs fall by $3.27
- Absenteeism costs fall by about $2.73
Worksite wellness programs that focus on mental health have been shown to boost productivity, reduce stress, and increase employee engagement, communication, moral and overall wellness. Employee satisfaction is also enhanced when they are made to feel like their employers are investing energy into their mental health needs.
Customizing a wellness program that will benefit your employees needs
There is no one size fits all corporate wellness programs. That is why I am pleased to deliver custom in-person corporate wellness programs that are designed to benefit the needs of your employees. I can provide your company single 60-90 minute “Lunch & Learn” seminars. I can also create a multi-session workshop (e.g., 4 sessions over 4 weeks) on different health-related themes (e.g., cultivating an intuitive eating practice).
Examples of past presentations include:
Engaging in Self-Compassion for Optimal Self-Care and Wellbeing
The Power of Mindfulness: How Mindfulness can help you succeed at work and life
Motivation & Change: How to engage in a long term change of health behaviors
Redefining Healthy Eating - without having to diet or restrict
Intuitive Eating: A Practice That Will Transform the Way You Approach Food
Ditch the Diet & Learn about Intuitive Eating. Is dieting not working for you? Join us and learn how intuitive eating can improve your life
Health At Every Size: an all size inclusive approach to wellness and health