“Wellness programs can increase the efficacy of benefits,” the report said. “Workers who use a workplace wellness program — whether it’s financial, emotional or physical and health — report that their workplace benefits are significantly more effective in relieving stress than those who do not participate in such programs.”

Employees say they want or need assistance with the following:

• Managing my financial future, 79%
• Managing health care needs, 78%
• Staying healthy, 77%
• Managing my emotional life and mental health, 76%
• Managing my daily financial life, 75%
• Managing work stress, 75%
• Family care solutions, 67%
• Educational planning, 65%

Workplace wellness programs may be beneficial in attracting and retaining younger workers, who are more likely than their older counterparts to feel that employers should offer benefits that help with stress (financial, emotional, and physical) reduction.

Mid-career generations are more stressed than older or younger workers by job or career situations and by maintaining work-life balance. Baby boomers, the oldest workers surveyed, are significantly less likely to use physical or health-related wellness programs. Women are more likely than men to report that they would use wellness support, especially for financial wellness, if offered by their employers.

There is a great deal of opportunity for wellness programs in the workplace, according to the research. Most workers would like to receive information/education from an employer, benefits provider or other resource with an implied endorsement from their employers.

“Wellness programs, however they may be defined, are likely worth the employer effort,” the report concluded. “LIMRA research shows employee satisfaction with such programs is very high, at 80% or more. These programs can improve worker productivity and also help with employee retention, making it a smart investment for employers.”