In recent years, economic and societal challenges have put employees’ psychological resilience to the test. Unfortunately, mental health issues have intensified, with more than 30% of employees experiencing stress-related symptoms. Since physical and mental health are deeply interconnected, there has also been a noticeable rise in physical complaints such as cardiovascular issues, digestive problems, and frequent respiratory illnesses.
Wellbeing Programs in Numbers
How healthy we are depends to a large extent on our daily habits—how much we move, how we eat, and how we manage stress. According to recent research, genetics play a far smaller role in our overall health than previously believed. That’s good news: it means we have greater personal agency to protect and maintain our wellbeing.
We might say it’s our individual responsibility to take care of our health—but that’s only partially true. Our environment plays a crucial role, especially the workplace, where we spend a large part of our lives—whether in-person, hybrid, or fully remote.
That’s why well-designed and strategically implemented corporate health programs are more than justified. The key questions are: What defines a “successful health program”? And what ROI (return on investment) can organisations reasonably expect?
Where Does an Effective Health Program Deliver Results?
When employees are mentally balanced—able to manage stress, stay motivated, and maintain a positive outlook—their psychological “immune system” strengthens. This not only reduces physical symptoms, but also leads to a decline in absenteeism and healthcare-related costs.
Psychological studies show that when employees are more engaged and enthusiastic at work—and feel satisfied with their employer—productivity increases. Job morale improves, and workplace relationships deepen.
Research confirms that effective wellbeing strategies reduce employee turnover:
“80% of employees say a company’s wellbeing strategy is a key factor in accepting a new job—and staying for the next 10 years.”
(CBRE Wellness Report, 2021)
What Do New Hires Expect from a Wellbeing Program?
44% – Mental health support and benefits
38% – Medical support
33% – Dental care
24% – Sports and leisure opportunities
11% – Ergonomic work environment
(Source: CBRE Wellness Report)
Corporate Image and Employer Branding
Beyond improving employee satisfaction, a comprehensive health program enhances the organisation’s public image. Companies that invest in workplace wellbeing send a strong message to the market, future and current employees, and clients: we care.
They present themselves as compassionate, responsible organisations—a valuable differentiator in today’s competitive labour market.
What Makes a Corporate Health Program Successful?
The case for workplace wellbeing is compelling—but what conditions must be in place to ensure its success? Review the checklist above and determine which elements are most relevant and feasible for your organisation in the current year.
Two key goals for 2023:
Align the wellbeing program with overall HR strategy
Integrate both mental and physical health components (e.g. mental health, physical activity, nutrition, sleep)
Return on Investment (ROI)
The central question when evaluating a workplace wellbeing program is this: Does the benefit gained outweigh the cost of implementation?
In other words, would the company gain more value from this investment than if the same amount were allocated elsewhere?
The data shows measurable improvements across multiple indicators—including reduced burnout, lower turnover, and improved productivity. ROI includes both direct benefits (e.g. fewer sick days) and indirect outcomes (e.g. higher motivation, fewer errors).
Case Study: SAP
General Outcomes:
Increased employee engagement
Greater trust in leadership
Reduced absenteeism
Tangible Results:
Higher satisfaction
Improved focus
More creative solutions
SAP’s health strategy is a prime example of a well-integrated, effective wellbeing program. Workplace health is a central pillar of their broader business strategy.
SAP received the Best Workplace Award from Glassdoor in 2019 and earned over 175 employee-related recognitions globally in 2018 alone.
Key Elements of the SAP Health Program:
Mental and physical health initiatives (online & offline)
Mindfulness and emotional intelligence modules
Self-awareness and confidence-building trainings
On-site medical and psychological support
Psychoeducational workshops
Health ambassador programme
Flexible work arrangements
Zsófia Logemann-Molnár
Clinical and Health Psychologist,
Organisational Psychologist
Clinical and Health Psychologist,
Workplace Wellbeing Expert
