New York, NY – The reason we have wellness plans in the workplace goes well beyond ideas about exercise and weight loss. Although wellness plans typically do include exercise and diet programs, there’s also a focus on mental health and stress management. Strong plans include various resources for people with needs at home. Based on a survey conducted by The National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs — 20% of families have children with special health care needs.
The survey says, “Based on the series of screening questions, a total of 12.8% of children under age 18 in the United States, or about 9.4 million children, are estimated to have special health care needs. Children with special health care needs are present in 20% of U.S. households with children.”
This study does not include children with chronic conditions. The study does not address children with learning disabilities like Dyslexia or Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD]. This research does not include children with intellectual or developmental delays. But these challenges do exist.
Fortunately, the working world has created different initiatives to promote employee health and wellness. These programs help improve employee care. Aside from the common need for basic health, there are other initiatives that can provide resources and support services. The reason for this is because challenges at home can lead to difficulties in the workplace. Put simply, people who feel better are able to work better.
Stress is not uncommon. However, stressors at home can lead to stressors at work. This can result in poor performance, additional workplace issues and missed opportunities. Meanwhile, a little help goes a long way.
In order to create a better workplace and a better world, interoffice support services can offer the use of the employer’s Emergency Assistance Program (EAP). These programs can offer the appropriate resources to assist employees with a better navigation of care.
There are other instances, such as the need for eldercare or elder eldercare support services in the home. This includes planning assistance and support for our loved ones who have reached the twilight of their lives.
Life comes with challenges. If you or someone you know is experiencing a personal struggle or difficulty, learn more about the support services, which are available to you from either your employer’s EAP or your union’s health and wellness director. Remember, wellness and proper health care begins at home. This means family comes first. Am I right?
Ben Kimmel is a proud member of the IUOE Local 94, as well as an Author, Writer on thewrittenaddiction.com, Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Certified Addiction and Recovery Coach, Certified Professional Life Coach, and Peer & Wellness Advocate. Ben can be reached at bennyk1972@gmail.com
