Our health is typically discussed in terms of the absence or presence of disease or illness, whereas the term well-being takes a more holistic view. In a broad sense, well-being is defined as the state of being comfortable, happy and healthy. The concept includes all areas of life – our environment, finances, occupation, emotions, intellect, physical and spiritual health.
Health and well-being are fundamental to our overall happiness and functioning. Having a strong sense of health and well-being has been shown to reduce risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and sleeping problems as well as increase productivity and creativity both at work and off the job.
The long-term health of Laborers and their families is tied to many factors, including decisions and behaviors that take place off the job. Employers can help support employee well-being by providing education and resources on how to lead a holistically healthy life, as well as by providing programs and benefits that promote healthy living (e.g., health fairs, wellness benefits and incentives and employee assistance programs).
