Effective employee wellbeing initiatives are impossible without strong leadership support. Studies show that employee engagement with wellbeing programs increases by 38% when leadership actively promotes these programs. Leadership’s role in fostering mental health in the workplace is crucial because it signals to employees that wellbeing is not just a box to tick—it’s a core part of the company’s mission.
For example, companies like Google and Unilever have implemented top-down wellbeing programs where leaders participate in digital health and wellbeing initiatives alongside their teams. This type of leadership engagement creates a ripple effect, where employees feel more comfortable accessing mental health support, taking advantage of corporate health benefits, and utilising stress management tools for employees.
Training managers is equally important. Managers should be equipped with the right tools, such as employee wellbeing platforms, to conduct staff wellbeing questionnaires and use real-time data to assess employee health. This helps identify areas where employees need additional support, whether it’s through resilience training, employee recognition, or workplace health solutions.
By showing commitment to employee wellbeing services, leaders can significantly enhance both engagement and productivity, reducing absenteeism and turnover.
Key Takeaway
Leadership’s active participation in employee health programs not only drives employee engagement but also fosters a healthier, more resilient workforce.