As India continues to develop, it is also experiencing a significant increase in chronic diseases. “The World Health Organization (WHO) has predicted that by 2030, 70% of deaths in India will be due to chronic diseases.”
Additionally, “poor mental health amongst employees is costing Indian employers around Rs 1.1 lakh crore ($14 billion) per year due to absenteeism, presenteeism, and attrition.” These figures are according to a recent survey by Deloitte, which highlights the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace.
According to WHO data, “India accounts for nearly 15% of the global mental health burden”, which is a concerning statistic. In fact, a recent report by Loop health insurance said that “47% of Indian professionals consider workplace-related stress to be the biggest deterrent to their mental health, with 33% continuing to work despite this strain.”
In today’s fast-paced and competitive business world, it’s easy for employers to overlook the importance of employee health. However, promoting good health and well-being in the workplace is not just a moral obligation, it’s also a smart business decision.
A healthy workforce is a productive and engaged workforce, with lower rates of absenteeism and higher levels of performance. Here are some reasons on why it is important for businesses to ensure good health for all their employees.
- Increased Productivity and Engagement
One of the most significant benefits of promoting good health in the workplace is the increased productivity and engagement of employees. Healthy employees are more likely to be focused, energetic, and motivated, leading to better performance and higher levels of productivity. In addition, when employees feel that their employer cares about their health and well-being, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.
- Reduced Healthcare Costs
Another important reason for businesses to prioritize employee health is to reduce healthcare costs. When employees are healthy, they are less likely to require expensive medical treatments or take extended periods of sick leave. By promoting good health in the workplace, employers can reduce their healthcare costs while also improving the well-being of their employees.
- Improved Workplace Culture
Promoting good health in the workplace can also help to improve the overall workplace culture. When employees feel supported and valued, they are more likely to have positive attitudes towards their work and their colleagues. Additionally, creating a culture of wellness can help to foster a sense of community and collaboration among employees.
- Compliance with Legal and Ethical Obligations
In many countries, businesses are legally required to provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees. By prioritizing employee health, businesses can comply with these legal obligations and demonstrate their commitment to ethical business practices.
- Positive Public Perception
Finally, promoting good health in the workplace can help to improve the public perception of a business. In today’s socially conscious world, consumers are increasingly interested in the values and practices of the businesses they support. By demonstrating a commitment to employee health and well-being, businesses can build a positive reputation and attract more customers.
Promoting good health in the workplace is not just a moral obligation, it’s also a smart business decision. From increased productivity and engagement to reduced healthcare costs and improved workplace culture, there are many reasons why businesses should prioritize employee health. By taking proactive steps to promote wellness and well-being in the workplace, businesses can create a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.
Our Customized EAP solutions
At KelpHR, our experts can help you with solutions for the mental health and well-being of your employees through our Counselling and Employee Assistance Programs. For more on our customized and confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) solutions that help provide mental health and wellness for organizations and their employees, do get in touch with us at info@kelphr.com, call +91-95001-29652.
About KelpHR
KelpHR was incorporated in 2013 to provide the best HR solutions to organizations, and to improve workplace culture across the board. Over the last 10 years, we have serviced more than 500 clients in India and a few overseas, across various industries in the areas of POSH (prevention of sexual harassment at workplace), D, E & I (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) and EAP. But the common objective of all of these services is to build safer, happier, inclusive and productive workplaces.
For any of our other services related to Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) or Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (D, E&I), do get in touch with us at info@kelphr.com, call +91-95001-29652 and we’d be able to help you with customized offerings suited to your organization.
References & Sources for data:
- Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP’s (DTTILLP), “Mental health and well-being in the workplace”
- NIMHANS Survey
- WHO Factsheets – India. Global Burden of Disease Collaborative Network, Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
- Report titled Corporate India’s Insurance Trap by Loop Insurance
