Can Benefits Technology Support Employee Mental Health and Wellbeing?

With the festivities and bright lights of December soon to be over, many employees who struggle with stress and mental health issues may feel as though the winter months after the festive period are a dark time for them. In fact, according to research by RedArc, mental health referrals increase by 30% in the first month of the year. It's also been announced that the Most Depressing Day of the Year is 21st January aptly named "Blue Monday".

Employees may be feeling the strain due to financial worries after a demanding festive period, as well as gloomy weather, relationship problems or work-related stress, resulting in issues such as reduced motivation and increased presenteeism to name a few. The key solution here is to implement an effective employee benefits strategy for your employees' wellbeing but how can your organisation harness technology to help you do this?

Your employees can benefit from easier online access to schemes and initiatives

Mental health doesn't have an off switch, and neither should access to your employee benefits. Technology in the form of a customisable benefits platform will enable your employees to have access to support schemes and initiatives in the click of a button – wherever, whenever. This is especially useful for remote workers, who may not feel as supported by employee benefits that require back-and-forth emails and letters to join.

Communicate the availability of employee benefits

Benefits platforms can offer messaging and communications features, enabling you to utilise an always-on method of letting your employees know that there is help available whenever they need it. Those experiencing higher levels of stress and worry may not know that you're offering support, but with benefits technology, you can reach out to your team in a more direct and engaging way of communicating.

Not everyone is comfortable speaking up

Those struggling with mental health and stress might not feel comfortable talking to someone about it face-to-face. The Mental Health at Work Report 2017 states that only a third of 18 to 29-year olds are comfortable talking with their manager about mental health issues. Benefits technology such as a digital platform can allow employees to access confidential support through their mobile phone. This is an option your employees may be more likely to consider if they're not sure about seeking help face-to-face.

In summary

Benefits are evolving and it's important to keep up with the demand for more innovative and streamlined methods of delivering them. Developments in employee benefits technology can help to support your employees' mental health and wellbeing, letting them know they're appreciated, valued and most importantly that they're not alone.