Workplaces are one of the most powerful environments for improving public health.
According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion annually in lost productivity.
In the UK alone, the UK Government reports that 17 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression and anxiety in 2023.
The WHISatWork programme focuses on helping organisations transition from surviving to thriving through prevention-led workforce wellbeing strategies.
Key areas include:
• Stress management and resilience • Workplace social prescribing • Preventive health screening • Digital health and AI support tools • Mental health leadership training
The economic case is compelling.
The World Health Organization estimates that every $1 invested in mental health support returns $4 in improved productivity and health outcomes.
Through WHISatWork, employers are discovering that investing in workforce wellbeing is not a cost — it is a growth strategy.
According to Gareth Presch:
“Healthy organisations build healthy economies. When we invest in prevention and wellbeing in the workplace, we unlock productivity, creativity and resilience.”
The World Health Innovation Summit helps organisations explore how prevention can be embedded into corporate strategy, workforce development, and leadership culture.
WHISatWork — Enhancing workforce wellbeing and productivity through stress management and preventive health strategies (From Surviving to Thriving)