After a challenging two years, many people still feel a little uneasy. Higher gasoline and grocery prices and mounting bills coming out of a pandemic have taken a toll. An unexpected expense or life event could make a tough situation even tougher.

Many people carry these burdens silently, afraid to ask for help. The strain of making ends meet makes it difficult to focus on work and productivity decreases. Absenteeism increases as employees miss work to handle problems at home. Stress also can lead to a weakened immune system and poor health — so increased sick days are likely, too.

You might see someone struggling at work, but are unsure what to do. 

Resources are available to help individuals and families reduce financial burdens and mental strains. The stigma associated with applying for supplemental benefits can act as a deterrent for many people, however. 

Awareness and encouragement by employers can reduce stigma and increase the use of needed services. There are ways to offer information and support that protect privacy and create a culture that supports employee wellness:

Host a team building or lunch-and-learn event offering information about a variety of resources. Fostering an atmosphere of understanding and support could help your employees value your organization more and increase productivity and longevity.

Employee websites offer a great resource. Does your organization maintain an internal website for staff? If so, provide phone numbers and links for programs.

Bathroom stalls provide a private space to place posters with phone numbers for those seeking assistance. Consider placing posters or brochures in break rooms, too.

Mesa County Public Health offers programs to support families and children:

Women, Infants & Children (WIC) helps with healthy foods in addition to breastfeeding and nutrition education. Recipients receive an electronic benefit transfer card at their first appointment. The card is good starting the day of the appointment at participating grocery stores. To qualify, recipients need identification and proof of their addresses and household incomes for past 30 days. Individuals who qualify for SNAP/Medicaid automatically qualify.

Parenting support: A nurse-family partnership program offers free in-home education and support to parents with young children. Nurses and coaches offer information on breastfeeding, developmental stages, discipline, health, nutrition and safety.

Child care licensing and support: Early childhood specialists work with child care providers to ensure safe, high-quality care. This team can also help with the Child and Adult Care Food Program, a federal program providing reimbursement for nutritious meals and snacks to eligible children enrolled at participating child care centers.  The department also works with the Early Childhood Council in Mesa County and Partnership for Children and Families (PCF) to make sure child care providers and families have the resources and support they need.

Sharing information about available resources can help employees make the connections they need to get through difficult times while remaining productive members of the work force.