4 ways to support employee health during the holidays

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Employee engagement and retention starts with good health

Between work parties, end-of-year deadlines, and family expectations, the holidays can be both fun and exhausting. No wonder employees tend to feel stressed — even more than during tax season, according to a 2023 survey from the American Heart Association. In fact, 51% of Americans said it takes them weeks to feel less stressed after the holidays.

Given these statistics, how can you help your team reduce stress and find more balance this year? Here are four ways you can support their health and well-being through the holiday season.

1. Prioritize gratitude

One of the strongest ways to counter end-of-year stress? Say “thank you.” Appreciation from leaders in the workplace has powerful results. A 2023 Workhuman study found that for almost 70% of people, being publicly appreciated reduced potential stress around meeting end-of-year goals.

Building a culture of gratitude can boost workplace morale and productivity beyond the holiday season. In one study, employees making fundraising calls were notably more productive when leaders expressed genuine appreciation. Those who felt recognized made 50% more calls than their peers who didn’t receive the same acknowledgment.

Maybe it starts with a gratitude wall or Slack channel, or thank-you notes in a communal space. Expressing gratitude doesn't have to be big or expensive. Simply telling someone you notice their efforts and contributions, and are grateful, speaks volumes.

2. Make healthy choices the easy choice

Eating healthy, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep top the list of what people struggle to prioritize during the holidays. All are crucial to staying energized and stress-free. By making healthy options more accessible, you can help employees meet wellness goals and feel supported at work. Start with simple yet impactful changes, such as:

  • Providing non-alcoholic options at gatherings like sparkling water and mocktails.
  • Selecting caterers with nourishing options that suit everyone’s dietary needs.
  • Encouraging movement throughout the day with walking meetings, employee-led fun runs, and discounted memberships at nearby gyms or fitness studios.
  • Posting accessible tips for managing holiday stress, such as short breathing exercises or taking a walk outside.

Supporting these choices in the workplace helps everyone feel equipped to care for themselves, both inside and outside of work.

3. Foster a flexible work environment

Support employee well-being with a flexible and inclusive work environment that recognizes individual needs and commitments during the holidays. Empowering employees to make choices that work for them prevents burnout and keeps spirits high — whether that’s adjusting their schedules to attend a child’s school play or taking time off to visit a loved one.

Consider simplifying traditions like holiday gift exchanges, which can unintentionally add financial stress or tasks to an already busy season. Help employees prioritize critical tasks and offer support to meet deadlines effectively. Be clear that employees should take breaks and use paid time off to disconnect, recharge, and recover.

4. Highlight health benefits that support well-being

The holidays can pack a punch for workplace health, from seasonal colds and flu to increased stress and seasonal depression. This season is the perfect time to remind employees of the health benefits available to them, emphasizing support for both physical and mental health. A quick refresher on healthcare options, mental-health resources, and family-care support can reassure employees that they have the resources to stay healthy and resilient.

Encourage employees to take full advantage of available benefits — knowing they can access care for themselves and their families can make a meaningful difference in managing stress and staying well through the season.

Carry health and wellness into the New Year

Supporting your employees’ health and well-being during the holidays will help them feel better, perform better, and keep company goals on track. With One Medical’s physical and mental health services, it’s easier to connect employees with the resources and care they need. Your supportive workplace culture will bring benefits into the new year, and beyond.

Learn more about how One Medical can help your employees to stay healthy here.