The number of Belgians dropping out due to stress and burnout continues to rise. On an average working day in the first half of 2024, 2.53% of employees were sick for 1 month to 1 year (10% more than in 2022) and 3.36% for more than a year (7% more than in 2022). (source: Securex).
Evelyne Eykelberg, Director of People & Community at Thomas More:
"Young children who don't sleep through the night, relationship difficulties, going through a period of mourning,... we all experience difficult times. That's when an extra helping hand can be welcome."
From lab to practice
That is why Thomas More has been working with the Antwerp-based tech company BloomUp since this academic year. Their digital platform is based on scientifically sound principles of cognitive behavioral therapy. The Research Group People and Well-being of Thomas More has also provided input on their approach. "Research shows that independently following e-learning modules often has limited effect. BloomUp and our university of applied sciences therefore offer professional guidance with the digital offering. That support is extremely valuable," explains research leader Psychology and Technology Tom Van Daele. Eykelberg also underlines this extra and substantiated approach:
"Our well-being coaches and confidential advisors do a wonderful job. With BloomUp, we are now making that warm approach even more accessible."
Tomorrow already
BloomUp tackles things smartly. They first give you a lot of practical info, like podcasts and blogs that make burnout and stress less of a taboo. But they go further: if you want, you can dive into scientifically-backed e-learning modules to get started yourself. Still not convinced? Then there are the self-tests. And if you're really in a bind? You can meet with a clinical psychologist within 48 hours. Online, without any hassle. Because sometimes you just need to vent. "The most revolutionary aspect is the speed," says Clovis Six, CEO of BloomUp.
"Where you often have to wait months in regular care, we can offer a first introductory meeting within 48 hours. The therapeutic process can already start within 5 days."
This quick access is possible thanks to an extensive network of professionals and a smart matching system. "With a few simple questions, we determine which psychologist is the best fit for your situation," Six explains.
"This platform is an important piece of the puzzle in our broader well-being policy," Eykelberg concludes. The university will closely evaluate the use of the platform. In addition, Thomas More's initiative could also set a precedent in the education sector.
Pioneering role
"We hope that many colleagues will find their way to this accessible help. In times when work-related stress is increasing in education, we as an employer must take our responsibility."
Positive initial reactions
Since the launch, several employees are already using the platform. "It's really nice that you don't have to wait for months," says one of them. "And because it's completely anonymous, I felt free to take that step."
Challenges
Initiatives around mental well-being by employers often raise privacy questions. Thomas More opts for complete discretion: all interactions on the platform are strictly confidential. "We only see anonymous figures about, for example, the total number of sessions within the university or popular e-learning themes," says Eykelberg. "This allows us to refine our policy without violating the privacy of our people."
What's the cost? Data from BloomUp shows that people need an average of 4 sessions via the platform. This is usually enough to help them with their specific problems. Those who need more sessions pay a variable price per conversation afterwards. A contribution is possible for these costs via the hospitalisation insurance and automatic contributions apply. The platform is available to all employees of Thomas More.
Want to know more?
Feel free to speak with someone from our team without obligation and discover together how we can support your organisation in promoting well-being in the workplace.
Original article from VRT Nieuws: https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2024/12/12/thomas-more-mentaal-welzijn/
.png)
