Healthcare is an essential need for everyone. This is why union delegates take a strong position during contract negotiations. The same as physical health is important, mental health is equally significant because of the direct correlation between the two.
Alongside physical health programs, companies, unions, and organizations are creating wellness initiatives to promote personal welfare and improve their work environment.
Benefit packages of organized trades and unions go beyond the topic of a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work. Aside from pensions and annuities, there are other essentials, such as doctor visits or dental and vision needs. By definition, the term wellness is the quality of health in body and mind, which is why mental health care is also essential.
Some unions and employers have assistance programs that provide support through the use of employed specialists and wellness committees. The programs act as a resource for workers and their families. Wellness programs and mental health initiatives are being instituted to improve personal fitness, to support performance, improve efficiency, and create emotional stability in the workplace.
According to the National Network of Depression Centers, depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States among people ages 15 – 44 and ranks among the top 3 workplace issues along with family crisis and stress. Although depression and family crisis will not affect everyone, stress and anxiety is common in all industries.
Benefit packages, support programs, and proper healthcare has proven itself as a valuable asset. With personal health being a crucial part of teamwork, healthcare can never be undervalued.
Benefit packages are the advantages of hard work, which means all workers owe it to themselves to understand the profits of their labor. Regardless of whether the benefit is needed or not, it always pays to know what’s in your plan.
Ben Kimmel is a proud member of IUOE Local 94, as well as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Certified Recovery Coach, Certified Professional Life Coach and Peer & Wellness Advocate. Ben can be reached at bennyk1972@gmail.com.
