Six employee wellbeing trends for 2023

As the year 2023 approaches, employers are focusing on addressing common health and wellbeing challenges faced by employees and how organizations can effectively support their workforce. Nuffield Health's 2022 Healthier Nation Index study highlighted that mental and physical health have declined for one in three UK adults over the past year. In response to these concerns, Nuffield Health identifies six workplace wellbeing trends that are likely to emerge in 2023 in this article, aiming to provide relevant and impactful wellbeing offerings.

These trends highlight the growing emphasis on holistic employee wellbeing and the need for targeted and personalized approaches to address various health challenges.

1. Managing Musculoskeletal Health: With the increase in remote work, employees have experienced benefits like work-life balance but also challenges such as overworking and ergonomic issues in home offices. Employers are expected to prioritize musculoskeletal health, potentially by inviting experts to assess the home office environment and offering advice on posture, exercise, and nutrition.

2. The New Work-Life Balance: The cost-of-living crisis has led to increased stress and burnout among employees. Employers may offer financial specialists' webinars and relevant benefits, such as grocery vouchers, to address financial stress and prevent burnout.

3. Self-Help Support: Despite efforts to reduce stigma around health issues, some employees still hesitate to disclose their mental or physical health problems. Businesses are encouraged to provide self-help platforms and remote support options for those who prefer working through challenges at their own pace.

4. A Focus on Prevention: Employers can utilize AI-powered digital platforms to analyze workforce data and predict potential health challenges. This proactive approach allows businesses to take interventions before symptoms become overwhelming.

5. Employee Power: Shifting workplace trends and employees' changing expectations require businesses to rethink their relationships with employees. Clear communication of expectations, regular feedback, and cultural change are essential for retaining top talent.

6. Family Focus: Flexible and remote work arrangements have blurred the lines between work and home life. Employers are expected to extend benefits to employees' families, such as private healthcare, medical benefits, and mental health support.

Overall, these trends highlight the growing emphasis on holistic employee wellbeing and the need for targeted and personalized approaches to address various health challenges. Telehealth services could complement these trends by offering remote support, health monitoring, and accessible resources to employees seeking assistance for their mental and physical health concerns.