The Connection Between Well-Being and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access
Too often, discussions about health and well-being center on an individual’s behavior – e.g., incorporating varied physical activity, eating more nutrient-dense foods, and improving sleep quality. While each of these actions undoubtedly has a positive impact on a person’s well-being, solely focusing on the individual while ignoring the larger structural forces that impact health and wellness misses an opportunity to take a more holistic and arguably effective approach at sustainable, long-lasting behavior change.
Embedding discussions of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) with well-being
When we connect the two it ensures that companies and organizations are truly attuning themselves to the needs and realities of their employees – at every level. Instead of viewing employees as a monolith, DEIA challenges us to recognize differences while understanding how our varied experiences impact how we show up in the world, including the workplace.
The Power of Our Different Lived Experiences
One example that I have witnessed many times while working with clients is a strong interest in improving physical activity. Despite having a clear intention and motivation, some clients lack access to safe and affordable spaces to exercise. Not every client will have the luxury or ability to work out at home. Some may not be able to afford a gym membership or attend a regular dance class. Others will not live in neighborhoods where it is safe to casually walk outside on a regular basis. In these instances, it is my job as a Health and Wellness Coach to meet my client where they are, and brainstorm ways that I can help them achieve their personal goals in a safe, sustainable, and affordable way.
By recognizing that each person is an individual with their own unique story and experience informed by the communities to which they belong, means that as a Health and Wellness Coach, I partner with my client to design an accessible wellness plan that truly works for them, so that they can show up fully and authentically in their life.
A Call to Action for the Workplace
It is time for organizations to proactively educate themselves about the social determinants of health – “the conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age that affect a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes and risks” – and their impact on well-being.
Learn how we help workplaces by creating a culture of well-being with embedded DE&I. Contact us today!
