Dive Brief:
- Employees in a Resilience in the Workplace study reported positive outcomes, according to the American Heart Association (AHA) and Harris Poll. More than 1,000 adults participated in the resilience training with 73% reporting their health improved as a result. Some said they had more energy, exercised regularly and experienced an improved quality of life.
- AHA's CEO Roundtable released the report, which offers practical guidance to employers who hope to implement resilience training programs. Two-thirds of the employees polled report work as a significant source of stress.
- Resilience training can help employees reduce stress and depression in the workplace, AHA says. It can help them develop the ability to withstand and recover from adversity, and cope with negative workplace stressors.
Dive Insight:
The American workforce continues to experience chronic health conditions and routine stress, including job strain and long work hours. The resulting poor mental health costs employers in absenteeism, lost productivity and low engagement, experts say.
Employers have long recognized the value of wellness programming in combating these problems, helping employees make better choices and lifestyle changes that improve overall health. The addition of resilience training could be another aspect of wellness that addresses the mind as well as the body. And even more than increasing productivity and engagement, these programs can help staff members enjoy better overall quality of life.
