Strategies to help employees and teams thrive post-pandemic

We have all heard flight attendants tell us to put our own oxygen mask on first. This not only applies when flying but to many aspects of our lives. (Photo: Shutterstock)

The last 18+ months have taught us many things including how critical wellbeing and resiliency are not only for individual employees but to organizations and businesses. The stress, isolation, and shift for many employees to work remotely due to the pandemic has taken its toll. Nearly half of full-time American workers indicated that they suffer from mental health issues, a significant increase since 2019.

At a recent employer conference, Pam Hannon, an HR and benefit design leader and Midwest Business Group on Health Board Chair, offered insights for employers tasked with the wellness and wellbeing of their workforce during these especially trying times. The lessons learned can be applied to workplaces that choose to be flexible with work-at-home or hybrid options where limited social interaction continues.