How to Evolve your Wellness Program Post COVID-19 and Mental Health First Aid Basics

Whether you have essential workers serving on the front lines, a workforce suddenly now operating from afar and/or have employees impacted by organizational restructuring and reductions, their lives are changing by the minute — and while it’s normal to feel anxious, afraid or even angry when faced with the unknown, many are experiencing these intense emotions while isolated socially from family, friends and coworkers.

The need for guidance, support and resources related to mental health has never been greater. ‘Mental Health First Aid’ is about recognizing the signs of someone who may be dealing with a mental health or substance use challenge, providing them with reassurance and connecting them to appropriate care. Applying the steps associated with ‘Mental Health First Aid’ — and offering resources like those included in an EAP or MAP — can be the catalyst for creating a mentally healthy workplace that helps employees feel valued, supported and respected.  We’ll review the impact of COVID-19 on employee mental health, MHFA basis for employers, digital and remote EAP treatment modalities and EAP-driven employer support services. We will also take a look at current wellness programs, share recommendations on next steps and how to maintain an effective wellness program post COVID-19. 

Presenters

Laura Czekanski

Laura Czekanski oversees the Wellness team within the Consulting Solutions division at Horton Group. In this role, Laura is responsible for providing clients with expert wellness solutions including health education seminars, on-site biometric screenings, health risk assessments, and health and benefit fairs.

Hilary Pape

Hilary Pape joined the CuraLinc Healthcare team as a Senior Client Relationship Manager in 2019, and brings several years of employee engagement and corporate wellness experience to the Client Services team. Hilary serves as a primary point of contact for many of CuraLinc’s largest employer partnerships and is passionate about mental, physical and emotional well-being in the workplace. 

Gladys Reyes

Gladys E Reyes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in IL. She’s currently in the training department at CuraLinc Healthcare and was previously and Employee Assistance Program counselor providing support to clients. Gladys has also worked with trauma among the veteran population at a VA Hospital and with socio-emotional learning programs at the Chicago Public Schools district.