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While it might sound like just another trendy term, it’s a serious issue that can impact your team’s well-being and productivity.
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can sneak up on anyone, especially in unstable environments with toxic work culture. According to Forbes, 80% of Americans say they feel stressed at work. If you’ve noticed your employees losing their spark, they might be experiencing burnout. Recognizing burnout early is key to keeping your team on track. Here are some common signs:
Low Energy Levels
An increased drop in enthusiasm or detachment from work and colleagues. If a team member who is usually full of energy is suddenly dragging through the day, that could be a red flag.
Productivity Slumps
Missing deadlines, reduced quality of work, or lack of focus are all classic signs that a team member may be struggling with burnout.
Physical Symptoms
Headaches, stomach issues, or frequent illnesses can be more obvious signs of underlying stress. WellRight also notes that symptoms like panic attacks, chest pains, an increased heart rate and changes in appetite, leading to weight loss or gain can also be a common sign of employee burnout.
Social Withdrawal
When an employee starts withdrawing from social interactions or avoiding meetings and team activities, it’s time to check in.
Concerned about your team’s well-being? Learn how Meridio’s health insurance plans offer comprehensive mental health coverage.
A research conducted by Monster in April 2024 found that 78% of workers don’t think their employer is doing enough to address their mental wellness at work. The key to preventing burnout is balance, with an overall goal of creating an environment where your team can thrive. Here’s how:
Encourage Breaks: It’s not just about the lunch hour. Regular breaks throughout the day are necessary to maintain focus and energy.
Promote Flexibility: Offering flexible work hours or locations can help employees manage stress.
Recognize Achievements: Acknowledge and reward your team’s hard work. A little appreciation goes a long way in boosting morale.
Maintain Open Communication: Make sure your team knows they can talk about their workload and mental health without fear of repercussions.
Provide Mental Health Resources: Ensure your team knows about any mental health support your company provides, from counseling services to stress management workshops.
Leverage Health Insurance Coverage: Highlight the mental health services covered by your company’s health insurance plan. Comprehensive coverage that includes therapy, counseling, and other mental health resources can be a crucial support system for your employees.
Looking to support your team’s mental health? Explore our Guide to Preventing Employee Burnout
While Mental Health Month is a great reminder, mental health shouldn’t be a once-a-year conversation. Recognizing the signs of burnout and taking proactive steps can keep your team motivated and productive year-round.
At Meridio, we offer healthcare plans that prioritize mental health coverage. Our Value Medical plans include access to therapy and psychiatry anytime, anywhere through Recuro Health. Contact us today to find out how to get started with Meridio.
We all know that feeling of night-sweats, high fever and not being able to keep anything down for days on end. Barley getting out of bed, missing work and activities, it's not something at the top of our todo list. With an increase in infectious diseases post-COVID and a recent US-based mesales outbreak, staying proactive when it comes to our health should be a top priority.
Not only will taking preventive measures to curb illness help you feel better, but it will put money back in your pocket. By preventing lengthy sick days and costly medical bills you will be able to live a vibrant life. Check out this practical roadmap to tip-top health and wellness that utilizes everyday solutions, with your built-in benefits coverage for preventive healthcare that will set you up for a long road of success.
Step 1: Build a Trusted Doctor-Patient Relationship
The foundation of great health begins with a reliable healthcare provider. Your doctor isn’t just there to treat illnesses—they’re your partner in maintaining lifelong wellness. Ask yourself: Am I comfortable with my doctor? Do they listen to my concerns and prioritize my health goals?
Take time to choose a physician who aligns with your needs and values. Recommendations from friends, online reviews, and ensuring they’re in-network with your insurance are great places to start. Building trust fosters open communication and ensures your doctor can tailor preventive care plans to your unique needs.
Step 2: Make Regular Check-Ups a Priority
Preventive care isn’t just for when you’re sick. Scheduling routine check-ups allows doctors to catch potential issues early and provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Each family member may have different needs, from pediatric visits for children to annual physicals for adults.
Not sure what’s included in a preventive visit? Review your health plan’s summary or call your insurance provider. Remember, early detection not only reduces suffering but also minimizes long-term healthcare costs. Prevention truly is better than cure.
Step 3: Stay Current with Vaccinations
Vaccines are a cornerstone of public health and individual wellness. Whether it’s childhood immunizations or adult boosters, staying up to date protects both your family and the community. Most insurance plans cover routine vaccines, making it easier than ever to stay protected.
Check resources like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) or your primary care provider for a vaccination schedule tailored to your age and risk factors. A simple shot today can save you from significant health complications tomorrow.
Step 4: Embrace Screenings and Preventive Tests
Screenings and tests help detect conditions like high cholesterol, hypertension, and even cancer in their early stages. These assessments often save lives by allowing for early intervention and treatment. It’s been found that some 80% of chronic medical conditions could have been prevented with simple screenings and lifestyle changes.
Talk to your doctor about screenings appropriate for your age and risk factors. Examples include mammograms, colonoscopies, and blood pressure checks. Regular testing can significantly improve health outcomes, giving you peace of mind and better control over your health.
Step 5: Cultivate a Healthy Lifestyle
Preventive care doesn’t stop at the doctor’s office. Healthy habits play a huge role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Encourage your family to stay active, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep.
Start small. You don’t need an expensive gym membership to get moving. Look for local walking or running groups, or simply enjoy a family walk after dinner. Similarly, involve your household in meal planning and preparation to make healthy eating a shared experience, utilizing sites like this one, for healthy meal planning tips. These lifestyle changes can create a ripple effect, improving everyone’s quality of life.
Step 6: Support Mental Wellness
Physical health is only one piece of the puzzle. Mental health is equally crucial to overall well-being. Encourage open discussions about emotions, using resources such as Mental Health America for guidance, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and seek professional support when needed.
Check your insurance plan for mental and behavioural health services—many now include therapy or counseling as part of their preventive offerings. Activities like mindfulness, hobbies, and quality time with loved ones can also help alleviate stress and build resilience.
Preventive care is more than a checklist—it’s a commitment to your future self. By fostering strong relationships with healthcare providers, staying on top of check-ups, prioritizing vaccines and screenings, and living a balanced lifestyle, you can set the stage for long-term health and happiness.
Take the first step today. Prevention isn’t just a medical term—it’s your family’s key to a brighter, healthier tomorrow.
For more tips on affordable health benefits and wellness solutions, you can visit our website.
As you prepare for travel in the coming weeks, here are a few things you should know before hitting the road. A recent survey by MarketWatch found that 60% of Americans plan to travel at least once this holiday season. Ensuring your health is in check can make the difference between enjoying your holiday and spending it under the weather.
First, ensure you and your loved ones are up to date on all your vaccinations. This is one of the easiest ways to prevent illness while you’re away from home. Most preventive care health benefits are covered at 100%, which can include vaccines like COVID-19, the flu, and Tdap. Reach out to your provider or primary care physician for clarification on what is included with your health coverage plan.
It’s a great idea to make a travel health kit in case you start feeling unwell while you’re away. Essential items to pack include your prescription medications, vitamins, over-the-counter medications, and hand sanitizer to name a few.
A few excellent travel staples for your health kit also include Oscillococcinum pellets and ColdCalm products from Boiron USA. These are easy to dissolve under your tongue and work quickly if you start feeling run-down, achy, or exhibit flu-like symptoms.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this season may bring variations of COVID-19, the flu, and a few bacterial infections such as pertussis and whooping cough. Staying informed can help you take preventive measures and recognize symptoms early.
Travel often involves standing in long lines, sitting in crowded quarters, and visiting with friends and relatives. In addition to staying up to date on vaccinations, here are ways to minimize your risk:
- Wash your hands frequently
- Boost your immune system
- Get enough sleep
- Keep stress to a minimum
One effective way to boost your immune system is by incorporating foods rich in Vitamin E into your diet. Foods such as leafy vegetables, eggs, red peppers, pumpkins, and carrots can help prevent cell damage, protect you from illness, and strengthen your immune system.
Before heading to your destination, familiarize yourself with your health coverage. Know your co-pays and deductibles, and understand when to go to the ER versus urgent care to avoid unnecessary bills. If you’re not already registered with a telemedicine provider, review coverage options before leaving town. Some physicians require an initial visit to establish care before scheduling sick calls.
If you need a telemedicine appointment while out of town, prepare your environment in advance. Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi connection and a quiet space to talk. Also, know the nearest pharmacy and its address in case the physician prescribes medication.
Traveling during the holidays can be a joyful and enriching experience, but it’s essential to prioritize your health. To recap, here are the top tips for staying healthy while you travel:
- Stay up to date on vaccinations
- Pack a comprehensive travel health kit
- Be aware of current health risks and practice preventive measures
- Incorporate immune-boosting foods into your diet
- Understand your health coverage before leaving town
With these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy the holiday season and all the memories it brings. Safe travels and stay healthy!
With flu season around the corner, there’s no better time to take advantage of your wellness and preventative care benefits. Health isn’t just about treating problems after they arise—it’s about preventing them altogether. By using the benefits that are already built into your health plan, you can protect yourself, avoid major medical issues, and save money.
Preventative care includes routine screenings, vaccinations, and check-ups aimed at identifying and treating potential health concerns before they become serious. Most health insurance plans, including those offered through Meridio, cover these services at no additional cost to you.
Examples of wellness and preventative services include:
- Annual physicals
- Flu shots and vaccines
- Blood pressure screenings
- Cholesterol checks
By staying up to date on these services, you’re not only protecting yourself from illnesses but also setting the foundation for long-term health.
Flu season tends to peak between October and March, making now the ideal time to schedule your flu shot. While getting vaccinated doesn’t guarantee you won’t get the flu, it significantly reduces your chances of getting seriously ill or spreading it to others.
Your health insurance plan likely covers flu shots at 100%, so take advantage of that benefit early in the season. Pair this with other wellness screenings, such as an annual physical, to get a full picture of your health.
Knowing where to seek care can save you time, money, and stress. Many health concerns can be addressed through your primary care provider, but urgent care centers are a great option when you need quick, same-day attention.
When to See Your Primary Care Doctor:
- Chronic issues (e.g., managing high blood pressure or diabetes)
- Routine screenings and annual check-ups
- Vaccinations, including flu shots
- Non-urgent concerns that need follow-up care
Your doctor knows your medical history and can help you manage long-term conditions. However, if it’s after hours or the issue can’t wait, urgent care might be the better choice.
When to Visit Urgent Care:
- Minor cuts, sprains, or burns
- Severe cold or flu symptoms (but not life-threatening)
- Infections (e.g., ear infections or urinary tract infections)
- Fevers or persistent coughs that don’t improve after a few days
Urgent care clinics are a smart choice for non-emergencies when you need immediate help. They’re often faster and less expensive than the emergency room, and most insurance plans will cover these visits with a reasonable co-pay (check your plan information for costs).
If you have a life-threatening issue—like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe allergic reactions—head to the ER or call 911 immediately. However, for less serious situations, urgent care or your primary care doctor is often the better option.
Misusing the ER for minor issues can result in long wait times and high bills. By knowing where to go, you’ll avoid unnecessary costs and make sure emergency resources are available for those who need them most.
Using your benefits proactively saves money in the long run. Routine care is far less expensive than treating advanced health issues, and many preventative services are covered at no additional cost.
Some practical tips for planning your healthcare this season:
- Get your flu shot early to stay protected.
- Schedule annual check-ups before the holidays.
- Call your doctor’s office for advice if you’re unsure where to go for care.
- Use telehealth options when appropriate for quick advice without leaving home.
When you plan ahead, you avoid stress and ensure you’re making the best use of your insurance benefits. This includes knowing which urgent care and emergency room accepts your benefits plan, as well as having these addresses and phone numbers saved for when they are needed.
At Meridio, we believe that good health starts with prevention. That’s why our plans cover wellness benefits and preventative care at 100%. By offering low-cost, high-value insurance options, we empower small business owners and their employees to take control of their health without breaking the bank. Click here to learn more about Meridio’s benefit options.
This flu season, make sure you are protected by taking full advantage of your plan’s benefits. Preventative care isn’t just about avoiding illness today—it’s about building a healthier future.
Switching to a new health benefits plan can feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially when you've grown accustomed to your current healthcare providers. Meridio’s health insurance offering makes finding a provider a breeze with the MultiPlan PHCS network, boasting more than 1.4 million registered providers and facilities nationwide.
Not seeing your preferred provider in the network? Nominate them to join anytime for your continued care. Whether you're looking to keep your current physician or needing to nominate a new provider to join our extensive network, the process is straightforward and designed with your convenience in mind. Here’s how it works:
To find a new provider or see if your existing provider is currently in network, visit https://www.multiplan.us/members/ and click on the “find a provider” button in the upper right hand corner of the menu bar. Alternatively, you can also click on the “find a doctor or hospital” button in the middle section of the web page to be taken to the same area.
Enter the network (the name of the network is listed on your medical insurance card underneath the Multiplan logo), provider or facility name/type, and city/state/zip code you’d like to search within. Select the search icon when complete to be provided with a list of in-network contacts in your area. You can also be provided with a list of in-network providers via phone by calling 1-800-922-4362.
If your current provider is not currently in-network, you can nominate them to join anytime by visiting https://www.multiplan.us/members/ and clicking on the “invite your provider to join our networks” button in the middle section of the webpage. Indicate the type of provider you are nominating (individual practitioner, facility, or group of practitioners) and complete the form information as prompted. If you are unsure of the type of practice or need additional clarification on any of the items needed to submit the nomination, reach out to the provider directly to give them a heads up about the nomination and get these questions answered.
Once complete, select the green “submit” button at the bottom of the form to share the request with the network for contacting. MultiPlan PHCS will reach out to the provider with the request to join and will add them to the network if/when the provider accepts the request.
While transitioning to a new health benefits plan can initially seem daunting, Meridio's MultiPlan PHCS network-backed health plans ensure that your healthcare needs remain seamlessly supported. With thousands of providers and facilities at your fingertips, maintaining continuity of care has never been easier. Whether you're opting to find an existing provider or nominate new ones, MultiPlan’s intuitive online tools make the process straightforward and efficient. Discover the ease of managing your healthcare with Meridio today, contact a benefits guide at 1-888-618-0450 to get started.
As employers it’s important to remember what you model and provide for your team will set the stage for how they handle stress while at work. Whether it’s a personal matter they can’t shake or a work conflict that must be addressed.
Providing your team a safe space to communicate openly is a great first step in creating a supportive workplace environment.
Establish clear work expectations with your team. When they clock out are they still expected to check work emails until a certain time? Help your team adjust notifications settings for work hours so when they are at home their cell phone and computers won’t get push notifications outside of normal working hours.
Many employees stress regularly over job security. Be sure you have a system in place that allows for regular feedback and growth opportunities. Speak to your team members about their workplace goals and where they might need help improving.
You can suggest local industry events or professional organizations that allow your team to become the best worker for your company and the best version of themselves.
94% of workers report feeling stress at work
According to the article, ‘67 Workplace Stress Statistics in 2023’
When your employees are at work and in the moment of stress there are three techniques that can help them come back to baseline and have a more productive day.
1. Deep breathing and relaxation breaks.
Adding these breaks throughout the day can help balance the workload and give the brain a break. Step away from the desk or office and just stand outside for 5 minutes. Don’t check emails or scroll social media, just be and just breathe.
2. Limit overwork
With long hours and tight deadlines this can be a tough balance but it’s possible. Allow your team to keep work at work and not bring work home. If they need extra help to complete tasks, provide the support needed. Learn to say no and teach your team not to overcommit themselves.
3. Open communication.
Frequently check in on your team and ask where their stress level is on a scale of 1-10 and ask how you can support them. Nowadays many businesses offer their team assistance programs that provide counseling and other mental health resources. There is no shame in seeking third-party support.
Remember workplace stress can impact employee health significantly and lead to more missed days of work if not managed properly. Additionally, unmanaged stress can lead to chronic illness and higher medical bills for diagnosis and treatment.
Help your team master the balancing act and improve your work culture by keeping open communication and clear work-life expectations.
