As we head into the final quarter of the year, HR professionals are looking for effective ways to engage and support their employees. The end of the year can be a stressful time for many, with holidays, year-end deadlines, and personal commitments.
To help you make Q4 a productive, healthy, and enjoyable time for your team, we’re sharing five key initiatives to engage your employees in the coming months.
1. Mindfulness Matters on World Mental Health Day (October 10)
Mental health should be a top priority for organizations globally. In fact, 91% of respondents of a Mental Health at Work Report agreed that company culture should support mental health. Take the opportunity to introduce mindfulness exercises such as breathing techniques and guided meditations regularly during working hours. You may also consider organizing a “Mental Health Day” for employees to unwind and focus on their wellbeing.
Bonus! Join our webinar, “The Global Workforce: Are They Mindful or Mind-full?” with Headspace on October 10 to explore strategies for supporting employees’ mental health, whether they’re in the office or working from home.
2. Embrace Diversity During Dyslexia Awareness Month (October)
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, a great opportunity to celebrate diversity and foster a more inclusive workplace. Dyslexia affects about 10-20% of the population. Our founder, Richard Branson’s own journey with dyslexia is testament to the strengths that can emerge from diverse thinking. You can embrace diversity by organizing neurodiversity training or activities to foster diverse ideas, perspectives, and capabilities.
Bonus! Join our upcoming webinar with Rethinkcare, “Creating a Culture of Inclusivity: Supporting neurodiversity in the workplace” to learn how you can incorporate these practices at your organization.
3. Prioritize Wellbeing for All This Men’s Health Month (November)
November, or Movember, is centered around Men’s Health, and it’s a reminder for everyone to prioritize their physical and mental health. Various societal and work-related factors often lead men to neglect their health. According to Harvard Health, men in the United States suffer higher rates of chronic illnesses and have a lower life expectancy compared to women. Organizations can promote open conversations about men’s health issues and provide resources for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Ensure that your wellness strategies take an inclusive approach, appealing to all demographics in your organization, including the unique needs of your male employees.
4. On Diabetes Day, Focus on Chronic Conditions (November 14)
World Diabetes Day falls on November 14th, providing an excellent opportunity to address chronic conditions within your workforce. Obesity affects almost 40% of Americans, and as a result, employers and health plans are receiving more requests for comprehensive obesity care benefits, such as coverage for GLP-1 medications.
At Virgin Pulse, we believe in the power of education and behavior change as the first line of defense. Providing resources, such as our GLP-1 and weight loss educational materials, can support those managing their diabetes journey and foster healthier lifestyles for all employees.
5. Keep Winter Holiday Stress in Check
Known as the most wonderful time of the year, many people would argue the holiday season is also the most stressful time of the year. In fact, 3 in 5 Americans feel their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays. Between all of the social obligations, family duties, and end-of-year work responsibilities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and put wellbeing on the back burner. Encourage stress management practices among your employees, such as mindfulness, time management, budgeting, and boundary setting. Consider offering flexible work arrangements during the holiday season to reduce stress and help your team navigate holiday-related stressors.
Virgin Pulse is committed to partnering with HR professionals in their journey to creating a healthier and happier workplace. To learn more, reach out to us here.
Additional Q4 Awareness Dates
October
- Global Diversity Awareness Month
- Emotional Wellness Month
- Dyslexia Awareness Month
- 1-15: National Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month (cont.)
- 3: Improve Your Office Day
- 10: World Mental Health Day
- 11: National Coming Out Day
November
- National Diabetes Month
- Native American Heritage Month
- Men’s Health Awareness Month
- Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
- 13: World Kindness Day
- 14: World Diabetes Day
- 16: Great American Smokeout
- 20: Transgender Day of Rememberance
- 23: Thanksgiving
- 24: National Native American Heritage Day
December
- 1: World AIDS Day
- 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
- 7: Hannukah Begins
- 10: Human Rights Day
- 25: Christmas Day
- 26: Kwanza Begins
- 31: New Year’s Eve
Download the full 2023 Wellbeing Calendar here.
