2020 holidays are looking blue — here’s how to help stressed-out employees

By Kayla Webster | Employee Benefit News

This isn’t going to be a normal holiday season. With the pandemic raging on, employees are bound to catch the holiday blues.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is advising people not to travel for the holidays, and to consider celebrating virtually to avoid spreading COVID-19 to loved ones. While following those guidelines will help keep people safe, being away from friends and family is unlikely to improve mental health. More than 80% of American employees have already experienced mental health issues due to the pandemic, according to a recent study.

Matt Verdecchia, a senior trainer for Health Advocate’s EAP program, says employers need to help lift their employees’ spirits if they want to continue having a productive workforce.

“People are mourning the lack of predictability, especially with the holidays,” Verdecchia says. “Employers have the resources to help maintain resilience and adaptability — they need to remind employees they won’t be dealing with this alone. You’ll have happier, more engaged employees when their needs are met.”

Employers need the right benefits and management strategies to help employees make the most of this unconventional holiday season, Verdecchia says.

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