In the three years since the entire world shut down, the impact of well-being on our lives has become the main character in large swathes of public discourse. According to the peer-reviewed journal Science Direct, one in six adult South Africans meet the diagnostic criteria for depression, anxiety or substance use in a 12-month period. The impending arrival of World Health Day on the 7th of April gives us the perfect opportunity to reflect on well-being and how it impacts our lives.
The pillars of wellbeing
Well-being is generally split into five pillars, each of which is essential for fostering holistic health and happiness. The pillars encompass various dimensions of human existence including financial, physical, mental, societal, and spiritual well-being. When one is off kilter, it can affect the others and often leads to a domino effect. Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to attempt to have each of them all functioning perfectly. Like many things in life, they’re moving targets that are more responsive to attention than perfection.
The South African context: struggles and solutions
If you stop most South Africans in the street and ask them if they love their country, chances are you’ll get some version of Rainbow Nation-powered patriotism. We do, however, face some challenges such as a stagnating economy, load-shedding and several other obstacles that are impeding our well-being. But this turning around. More companies are investing in employee well-being and therapy has become destigmatised. Financial literacy is much more readily available and information about various types of spiritual practices can be more easily found than ever before.
The cost of neglecting well-being
Most of us spend large chunks of our day at work. Whether online or in person, our line managers and colleagues are more than likely the people we interact with the most and as a result, are the people who have some of the largest impacts on our well-being. The consequences of neglecting employee well-being are profound.
In South Africa, companies lose an estimated R161 billion to employee mental health struggles. Moreover, companies with poor well-being scores often suffer from reduced productivity, higher absenteeism rates, and diminished creativity, ultimately impacting their bottom line.
Unlocking potential through employee assistance programmes
Employee assistance programmes (EAPs) can help organisations enhance employee well-being and productivity. Unfortunately, despite their potential benefits, studies indicate that less than 10% of the workforce utilise these programmes. Bridging this gap requires a multifaceted approach, including leveraging technology, increasing visibility, and fostering a culture of well-being within the workplace.
The role of technology in promoting well-being
Like so much else in our lives, technology and artificial intelligence (AI) can play a pivotal role in fostering well-being. AI-powered platforms offer personalised solutions for managing stress, improving sleep, managing your finances and promoting healthy habits. These technologies analyse vast amounts of data to provide actionable insights and recommendations tailored to individual needs. By leveraging the power of technology, we can easily and instantly access resources and support systems that enhance their overall well-being, empowering them to lead healthier and happier lives.
Fostering a culture of well-being
Creating a culture of well-being requires a concerted effort from both employers and employees. Companies must prioritise confidentiality, offer comprehensive well-being strategies, and implement initiatives aimed at stress reduction. By addressing the root causes of workplace stress and promoting a supportive environment, organisations can cultivate high-functioning teams capable of achieving exceptional results.
Investing in the future
Prioritising well-being is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic investment for both society and organisations. By recognising the interconnectedness of financial, physical, mental, and social aspects of well-being, we can build resilient communities and thriving workplaces. Through innovative solutions such as EAPs and technology-driven interventions, we can create a brighter future for all where individuals can thrive, and organisations can flourish. As we navigate the challenges of the modern world, let us remember that investing in well-being is investing in the prosperity of generations to come.
Authors
Jaco Oosthuizen, Co-founder and MD YuLife South Africa
