More than 2,000 of these employees reported having high stress levels. Those under high stress had statistically significant lower quality of life, more fatigue, and poorer health compared with employees reporting low stress levels. They were also more likely to have high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and to be overweight. The researchers concluded that tailored stress-reduction programs would be beneficial for these employees.

Employers all across the nation are recognizing just how important a healthy workplace and a healthy workforce are to improving productivity, as well as to controlling health-care costs. The best employers establish workplace wellness programs, creating an environment that supports employees who are committed to long-term behavior changes, and launch programs or services to promote living a healthier lifestyle. Corporate wellness programs typically focus on physical fitness and weight loss initially, but some are also beginning to address other domains of wellness, including stress management, work-life balance, spirituality, and resilience. Not surprisingly, many now integrate mind-body therapies, such as Tai Chi.