From Fortune:

Workplaces are investing in virtual therapy, mindfulness programs, and other well-being initiatives in hopes of a happier and healthier workforce. However, a study by the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre found that these interventions did not result in improved employee well-being for the majority. Only volunteering positively correlated with improved workplace well-being.

Founder and CEO of Real, Ariela Safira, agrees with the study’s conclusions, stating that more benefits without intention fail to solve the problem of diminishing mental health. Dr. Richard Safeer, chief medical director at Johns Hopkins Medicine, believes well-being benefits can make a difference, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Research found that limiting work outside of typical hours, implementing a 4-day workweek, and incorporating mental health days were the top three workplace policies workers believed would improve their well-being. Workplace culture strategist Jennifer Moss asserts that systemic changes must be addressed to combat burnout and stress, and suggested giving employees time in the workday to focus on self-care.

The study’s data was collected before the pandemic and did not consider the specificity of the programs over time. Safeer also cautioned against lumping all employers together, as some are taking meaningful steps to improve workplace well-being.



Read more: Workplace wellness benefits don’t help. Here’s what does