The Five Pillars of Wellness

The Social Wellness Pillar

Each of us is inherently a social creature with a strong desire to belong in a community. Public service employees know this in our core as we do the work that keeps the larger society running.
Supporting structures in this pillar are: Diversity and Inclusion, Mentorship, Having Positive Impact, Connection, Status, Privacy, and Voice.

The Emotional Wellness Pillar

Finally, awareness around the importance of emotional wellness is catching up with the times. After decades of a “suck it up” mentality meant to denote strength, but which ultimately fortified weakness, individuals and organizations are recognizing the danger of ignoring emotional wellness and mental health. Mindfulness has gained traction across employment sectors, with many organizations providing the resources 24/7 for their employees, including during the working hours.
Supporting structures in this pillar are: Safety, Access to Care, Emotional Intelligence, Growth, Recognition, Free Time, Hobbies, Education, Family, Friendships, and Advocacy.

The Physical Wellness Pillar

Physical health seems like a no-brainer, but most employment contracts only provide for it in 2 forms: Healthcare Coverage and Minimum fitness standards where applicable. Proactive or incentivized physical health measures are few and far between. The supporting structures in this category are not ground-breaking, but they are critical.
Supporting structures in this pillar are: Care Access, Exercise, Safety, Ergonomics, Alternative Medicine, Education, Workers Compensation, Nutrition, Physical Exercise, and Insurance.

The Occupational Wellness Pillar

The occupational wellness pillar uses major portions of the Job Characteristics Theory, developed by Greg Oldham and Richard Hackman. Skill variety, Task Identity, Task Significance, Autonomy, and Feedback are the five core elements of Job Characteristics Theory which drive outcomes and satisfaction.
Supporting structures in this pillar are: Safety, Security, Work Life Balance, Training, Development, Mentorship, Opportunity, Transferable Skills, Education, Proper Tools, and the ability to pivot or change rolls.

The Financial Wellness Pillar

Financial stress is usually cited as the most common source of household stress in the United States.
Supporting structures in this pillar are: Salary, Overtime Availability, Retirement, Supplemental Retirement Options, Counseling/Education, Incentives, COLA Adjustments and expense rates, Savings Vehicles, Financial Wellness, and Education.