E-Cigarettes ≠ Superior Smoking Cessation Aid
There's almost no doubt that e-cigarettes expose users to fewer toxic chemicals than traditional cigarettes. Although promising in theory, new research suggests that individuals who use e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool are no more likely to be abstinent a year later than those who use alternative aids or nothing at all.
Say Hello To Halo, Amazons New Wearable Device
Despite the challenges many wearable device companies have experienced over the past several years, Amazon entered the market with Halo, an on-wrist health tracker. Amazon Halo uses five health metrics to give users a comprehensive look at their health and well-being as well as provide actionable recommendations on how to improve it.
Benefits Alone Cannot Improve Employee Well-Being
A study from The Well-being Lab and George Mason University found that wellness benefits alone cannot meaningfully change the health of employees. Specifically, the study found that leadership and culture have an incredible impact on well-being in the workplace.
“Twindemic” Fears Highlight Importance Of Flu Shots
This fall and winter, countries around the world will need to address an airborne respiratory illness that primarily affects the nose, throat, and, in more severe cases, lungs. Although the description could easily be mistaken for COVID-19, it is referring to the seasonal flu. The scenario of a severe flu season is a real possibility that has public health officials fearing a “twindemic.”
Survey: Workers Conceal Mental Health Issues From Employers
Despite the progress made in destigmatizing mental health issues and pursuing positive emotional wellness goals, there is still work to be done. A survey conducted by Aetna showed that workers were less likely to be open about a mental health concern or use benefits like sick days to deal with those issues than they were for physical illness.
Employees Need Time Off, Even In A Pandemic
Since the beginning of the pandemic, many employees have transitioned into working remotely from home. Some employees now enjoy increased flexibility with schedules and project timelines. Unfortunately, this has complicated workers’ abilities to disengage from work tasks, which can often be done at any time of day and virtually.
Accountability Partners Promote Success In Individual Wellness Goals
A lot of attention has been put towards making wellness programs more effective by addressing the specific, personal needs of each individual rather than opting for a one-size-fits-all approach. While this individualization is necessary for accessibility and engagement, employers should keep in mind that there are benefits to including a social aspect in their wellness program.
Mental Health Conditions Remain Elevated As Pandemic Continues
Since the beginning of the pandemic, a large number of employees have reported that they are dealing with depression, unprecedented levels of stress, trouble concentrating, and difficulty maintaining a health work-life balance. If mental health is left unaddressed, employee well-being and productivity will only continue to suffer.
As School Year Approaches, Employees Face Uncertainty About Childcare
For many working parents in America, this summer’s end brings difficult questions regarding childcare in the impending school year. Unlike this past spring, more workers have returned to full-time or on-site work, yet companies are still struggling to address employee childcare needs.