Discover the Power of Self-Care for a Thriving Workplace
Embrace Direct Primary Care for Accessible, Quality, and Affordable Preventative Health Care
We all know that the past couple of years have been tough. With the roller coaster of the COVID-19 pandemic, skyrocketing inflation, and soaring healthcare expenses, it’s no wonder that stress levels among employees hit an all-time high in 2023.
In fact, women in the United States have experienced some of the highest stress levels globally. Depression rates of U.S. adults have more than tripled since the pandemic, now affecting 1 in every 3 U.S. adults. Due to these factors, among others, it has become increasingly difficult for employees to present as their best selves at work. Self-care is part of the answer as to how we can move forward and support the American workforce.
So, what exactly is self-care?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), self-care is all about “individuals, families, and communities taking charge of their own health, preventing illnesses, and coping with disabilities, with or without the support of healthcare professionals.” It’s about empowering ourselves to be the best versions of ourselves, both personally and professionally.
Now, you might be wondering, why is self-care so important, and how does it impact the workplace?
Well, here’s an eye-opening fact: a recent study of Americans aged 25 and older engage in an average of 15 minutes of health-related self-care daily. That’s a startlingly low number! Embracing self-care around the clock is the key to creating a thriving workplace. When we prioritize our well-being, we can bring our best selves to every aspect of our lives, including our work. By empowering employees to take control of their healthcare journey, we unlock the door to the accessible, quality care they need and deserve.
At the heart of self-care lies the foundation of primary care, which plays a crucial role in preventative health. Regular check-ups, screenings, and health education provided by primary care physicians are fundamental in maintaining overall well-being. That’s why Exemplar Care, with our innovative Direct Primary Care (DPC) model, is dedicated to delivering accessible, quality care to our members.
Imagine having direct access to your primary care provider and 24/7 urgent care, where you receive prompt treatment and get back to work quickly. That’s what Exemplar Care offers! We believe that by promoting a culture of preventative health, including self-care, and providing seamless communication channels to providers, we can encourage more employees to embrace direct primary care and experience the transformative benefits it brings.
Our goal is to ensure that every individual has access to affordable, personalized care when they need it, allowing them to get back to work quickly and confidently.
Did you know that self-care in the workplace has a direct impact on employee well-being and productivity?
Numerous surveys show that over 50 percent of workers state that workplace stress has caused difficulties for them and more than 10 percent describe these as having major effects. For many, workplace stress culminates in difficulty sleeping, stressed out eyes, neck pain, hurting hands and more than 12 percent have called in sick due to lack of self-care in the workplace.
Research has shown that organizations that prioritize and promote self-care experience several benefits, including:
- Reduced Stress: High levels of workplace stress can have detrimental effects on employees and organizations. According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, 83% of employees reported that work-related stress negatively affects their well-being. By promoting self-care practices, such as encouraging breaks, providing stress-management resources, and fostering a supportive work environment, employers can help reduce stress levels and create a healthier workplace.
- Improved Mental Health: Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. Studies have shown that employees who engage in self-care activities, such as exercise, mindfulness, and seeking support when needed, experience improved mental health outcomes. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that employees who engage in regular physical activity experience reduced levels of depression and anxiety.
- Engaged Productivity: Engaging in self-care practices can significantly enhance productivity in the workplace. According to a study conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, taking short breaks throughout the day improves focus, cognitive function, and overall productivity. Additionally, setting realistic goals, practicing time management techniques, and encouraging work-life balance can help employees maintain focus, prevent burnout, and accomplish tasks more efficiently.
- Reduced Absenteeism: Prioritizing self-care can lead to reduced absenteeism rates in the workplace. When employees take care of their physical and mental well-being, they are less likely to experience chronic illnesses, fatigue, or burnout. A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that organizations that promote employee wellness programs, including self-care initiatives, experienced a significant reduction in absenteeism rates.
- Positive Workplace Culture: Fostering a culture of self-care in the workplace is essential for creating a positive and supportive environment. When organizations prioritize self-care and provide resources to support it, employees feel valued and appreciated. This, in turn, leads to increased morale, job satisfaction, and a stronger sense of belonging within the organization.
By incorporating self-care initiatives into the workplace, employers can create a positive and supportive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to prioritize their well-being.
