TORONTO, March 1, 2024 — Dr. Dwight Chapin, clinic director and owner of High Point Wellness Centre, highlighted the transformative impact of prioritizing physical and mental health on employee engagement, retention, behavior, and overall health. Speaking at HRD’s Wellbeing Summit on February 28 at Arcadian Court Toronto, Chapin shared valuable insights during a fireside chat, focusing on reducing the risk of musculoskeletal conditions and chronic diseases.
The summit, featuring panels and discussions on diverse topics, aimed to address the creation of psychologically safe workplaces and successful mental wellbeing strategies to empower employees.
Chapin underscored the shift towards prioritizing wellbeing, emphasizing the unique opportunity presented by Canadians’ increased commitment to self-care following the pandemic. He urged HR professionals to leverage this momentum to instigate positive changes in corporate wellness.
“Canadians are leaning into self-care with a profound commitment that I hadn’t seen before until the pandemic. It’s creating a unique opportunity right now in corporate wellness to really shift behavior and move the needle with respect to employee engagement,” said Chapin.
Discussing the economic impact of musculoskeletal conditions, Chapin highlighted the estimated $22 billion annual cost to the Canadian economy. He stressed the importance of creating access to clinical support and programming that raises awareness about the impact of daily routines on physical health.
Chapin pointed out the challenges posed by remote work setups, where unconventional workstations contribute to an increase in musculoskeletal injuries. He proposed corporate initiatives to promote postural health awareness and control the risk of these diseases.
Emphasizing the reciprocal benefits of prioritizing employee wellbeing, Chapin noted that it not only improves employees’ quality of life but also aids in recruiting and retaining talent, citing a strong return on investment for wellness initiatives.
In another summit session, Greg White, director of partnerships and strategic alliances for Virgin Pulse in Canada, highlighted the need for customized approaches to employee wellbeing. He emphasized that mental health encompasses various aspects such as relationships, finances, and physical fitness. White advocated for accessibility in digital health services, emphasizing the consolidation of solutions for easier access and understanding.
Addressing the reduction of stigma surrounding workplace wellbeing, a panel discussed success stories and strategies, with a specific focus on menopause. Rachel Wong, VP of total rewards & HR technology at Symcor, stressed the importance of openness and vulnerability in addressing topics like menopause. Supported by women in leadership positions, Symcor aims to break the stigma surrounding menopause through open conversations and awareness campaigns.
The HRD’s Wellbeing Summit provided a platform for thought leaders and professionals to explore and discuss strategies that contribute to a healthier and more supportive work environment.
