A new study finds workers who have access to employer-sponsored dependent care supports like worksite child care report they are healthier than employees without access to these benefits.

According to a study done by the Consulting Practice at Bright Horizons, in cooperation with Dr. Jamie Ladge of Northeastern University, respondents with supports offered by their employer were 31 percent less likely to report lost productivity due to stress over the past month and reported 25 percent fewer personal health concerns due to stress.

Conversely, respondents without work/life supports offered by their employer:

• Were nearly a third more likely to report being down, depressed or hopeless in the last month;
• Were 62 percent more likely to experience sleep issues that have an impact on their jobs;
• Are three times as likely to be treated for high blood pressure and diabetes; and
• Spend 20 percent more time dealing with dependent care issues at work than those who do have access to work/life supports.

"The results of the study confirmed what leading employers know about the positive impact of dependent care supports on employee engagement and productivity - that engagement leads to highly motivated workers and strong business growth," said Bright Horizons CEO, Dave Lissy. "But these new findings that highlight the impact these supports have on health and well-being are very compelling, particularly in light of rising health care costs and the continued focus on supporting employee health and wellness. Clearly, employers who offer these supports have healthier employees and in turn a healthier business."