50% of Employees Are Struggling — What Can Employers Do? | A HIT-chat with Andrea Notch Mayzeles

Employee mental and physical health aren't separate issues—and both can have a major impact on the workplace. In Part 2 of The H.I.T. Podcast, Toby Kennedy continues his conversation with Andrea “Andy” Notch Mayzeles, Workforce Health Consultant at Kaiser Permanente, about the realities of employee well-being and what organizations can actually do to help. With research showing significant levels of burnout, depression, and anxiety among today's workforce, the consequences extend far beyond individual employees. Absenteeism, healthcare utilization, retention, productivity, and even customer service can all be affected. But mental health is only part of the equation. Andy explores the often-overlooked connection between musculoskeletal health and mental health, including how physical pain can contribute to depression—and how depression and inactivity can make physical pain worse. In this episode: The impact of burnout, depression, and anxiety in the workplace Why musculoskeletal health deserves more attention The connection between physical pain and mental well-being Why psychological safety helps employees speak up before problems escalate How micro-movement breaks can support physical and mental health Why simply taking a lunch break matters Why communicating benefits once isn't enough Creating a “surround sound” approach to employee wellness communication How leaders, wellness champions, HR, and safety teams can work together Why employees need to understand that resources like EAPs are confidential One of the biggest challenges isn't always a lack of resources—it's making sure employees actually know those resources exist and feel comfortable using them. Missed Part 1? Check out the first half of Toby's conversation with Andy on building workplace wellness that actually works.