Wellness Report 2017: High Rate of Employees Are Taking Medication for Chronic Conditions; Almost One-Third Have Experienced a Recent Major Life Change, According to ComPsych

CHICAGO – Aug. 7, 2017 – ComPsych today released its yearly aggregate report of health assessments across its book of business, including data from hundreds of thousands of employees of all ages, occupations, regions and industries. The report provides a snapshot of employee physical and emotional health as well as guidance for employers on how to create and maintain a healthy workforce, with tips on wellness program design, messaging and promotions. ComPsych Corporation is the world’s largest provider of employee assistance programs and is the pioneer and worldwide leader of fully integrated EAP, behavioral health, wellness, work-life, HR, FMLA and absence management services under its GuidanceResources brand.

“Health assessment data clearly shows that employee physical health issues affect their emotional state, and vice versa,” said Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz, Founder, Chairman and CEO of ComPsych. “By addressing employee issues holistically – whether financial, social, mental or physical – organizations can increase employees’ peace of mind and improve their overall health and focus at work.”     

Key Findings:

• The four health conditions with the highest rate of prescription drug use – high blood pressure (84 percent), high cholesterol (66 percent), gastrointestinal disease (78 percent) and diabetes (79 percent) – can be directly impacted by diet.

• 52 percent of employees eat two or less servings of fruit/vegetables per day.

• 52 percent of employees lack interesting and challenging situations in their lives.

• 30 percent of employees experienced a major life or work change in the past year (relocation, death of a loved one, change in job responsibilities, etc.)

To receive the full report, which includes eight wellness “pro tips” on wellness program design, messaging and promotions, go here (See:  “Wellness Trends Report 2017” under Health & Wellness /  Health Navigation section at top right).