"We are family around here"

One hundred and eighty hours a month. This is the average number of hours most people spend at their jobs. This excludes the time spent travelling to and from work.

When considering this, the culture and values of the company becomes as important as your wellness. Your health is directly and indirectly impacted by your job; certain businesses have noted this and attempt to help by implementing ‘corporate wellness programs’.

Designed initiatives and programs implemented by organisations to promote the health and well-being of their employees. These programs aim to:

- improve physical

- mental health

- emotional health

But why? Because when you are healthy and feel valued, it ultimately leads to a more engaged, productive, and satisfied workforce.

Many large corporations initiate and promote corporate wellness in the following ways:

-          Generalised (and vague) health messages via email or computer screensavers

-          Flyers are put up on poorly placed notice boards

-          Wellness days, where general wellness information is given

Do you think these techniques are helpful? Do you, yourself, read and implement the health messages? Would these techniques work if you did not have access to a computer at work? Many individuals do not require computer access for work such as:

- engineers

- fishermen

- farm workers

-  chefs/bakers

- drivers

How do you reach this demographic? How do you strive to provide the best for your employees?

By providing them with tailored messages for their careers, socio-demographic backgrounds and accessibility. A well-thought-out message explained by an expert can do much more than many programmes, which can cost hundreds of thousands. If many of your employers are female, perhaps you can have a mammogram drive? Many employers living with diabetes, hypertension or poor dietary habits? Consider getting a dietitian to provide science-based interactive sessions.

Interested in hearing more? Click on: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6uciItV3lAkjIkL1HwwVXD?si=5SwTVGFfSaOFsNBRujkImQ

Until next time

Shelldon Athena Breda, registered dietitian, M.Sc.