In today's fast-paced world, businesses are increasingly recognising the necessity for healthier, happier workplaces. Reports have shown that companies with higher wellbeing show a superior return on assets, generate higher profits, and command higher valuations. Beyond that, the Great Resignation and the general decline in employee mental health as a result of COVID has prompted a significant shift in corporate cultures, as an increasing number of organisations start prioritising mental health alongside bottom-line growth – and the two are often strongly connected. In short, employee wellbeing has become a business imperative today.The link between stress and productivity levelsConversely, studies reveal an indisputable link between employee stress and productivity levels. Studies have shown that poor mental health costs the South African economy up to R200 billion each year. This cost is felt in absenteeism, presenteeism (working while ill) and staff turnover. It is high time that businesses pay attention to these figures and act.Employers often observe decreased productivity levels in highly stressed employees. These individuals may exhibit symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, reduced motivation, frequent illness, and diminished creativity – all of which negatively impact work output. Additionally, long-term stress can lead to more serious mental health issues – such as anxiety and depression, further affecting productivity.Importantly, stress not only affects individuals, it permeates entire organisations. A high-stress environment can harm team morale, cause communication breakdowns and trigger a vicious cycle of falling productivity, increased pressure, and escalated stress levels. These ripple effects can influence overall business performance.What can businesses do?1. Initiatives to reduce stressTo foster a healthier workforce and enhance productivity, businesses need to focus on mental health as a cornerstone of their corporate wellness strategy. Initiatives such as flexible work hours, remote work opportunities, stress management programs and access to counselling services, like through Employment Assistance Programmes, can help support employees in managing their stress effectively.2. Employee benefits insuranceAt YuLife, we believe that employee benefits can play a pivotal role in creating mentally healthy workplaces. Employee benefits packages that include mental health support demonstrate an employer's commitment to their team's wellbeing. These services, from counselling and therapy sessions to mental health days, can be life-changing for many employees. Not only do they help individuals cope with stress and other mental health issues, but they also contribute to a more positive, productive work environment.3. Prioritising psychological safety in the workplaceFurthermore, we encourage businesses to cultivate an open dialogue around mental health. Stigma remains a significant barrier to employees seeking help, often due to fear of professional consequences. Employers should foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of judgement. This can be achieved by having leaders openly talk about mental health, providing training to managers, and sharing resources and information with the entire workforce.4. Using technology to promote wellbeingWe also champion the use of technology in promoting mental wellbeing. Digital tools can facilitate stress management, with apps offering mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioural therapy techniques and sleep aid strategies. By integrating these tools into their wellbeing programmes, businesses can provide a convenient, confidential and highly accessible solution to employees dealing with stress. In fact, YuLife’s employee app, with its gamified daily fitness challenges and the opportunity to earn rewards in YuCoin that can be converted into vouchers with leading retailers, is proven to drive engagement and help teams live healthier lives. The connection between stress and productivity is clear, and businesses cannot afford to ignore it. By putting mental health at the forefront of their strategy, they stand to create healthier, more resilient workforces resulting in improved productivity and ultimately – healthier businesses.Creating a mentally healthy workplace is not just about reducing costs – it’s about people. By promoting mental health and wellbeing, businesses show their employees that they matter. This approach can significantly boost employee morale, enhance job satisfaction and foster a culture of loyalty and trust.YuLife is here to support businesses in implementing strategies that care for the mental health of their employees. Remember, a healthy mind contributes to a healthy business – it's not just an adage, but a formula for success in the modern business world.As we move towards a future of work defined by human-centred approaches, let's ensure that mental health is not left behind. As the saying goes, "A healthy mind is the greatest wealth." Now it's time for businesses to invest in this wealth for the betterment of their employees, their productivity and their overall success.Meet YuLifeYuLife is working to reimagine the insurance industry by protecting lives, rewarding living and inspiring life. We’re on a mission to transform traditional insurance into a life-enhancing experience every employee will value and use daily. How does it work? Our award-winning app uses behavioural science and game mechanics to reward your people for living well while offering protection in case of crisis. And with our top-rated employee assistance program, your team gets access to mental, financial and social support, nutritionists, life coaches and more to help them live their best lives.Because we believe that your employees should benefit from their insurance from day one – and that wellbeing should be accessible every day, for everyone.Request a free demo for your team today.