Cleo Clarke Speaks on Employee Mental Health and Well-Being
When it comes to mental health, M&R wants employees to know they are supported on their wellness journey.
Speaking on a panel at the National HR in Hospitality Conference held at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta on April 30, M&R’s Vice President of People & Culture Cleo Clarke addressed employee well-being and mental health in the workplace. Produced by Cornell University, the conference brings together human resources and legal professionals to discuss key issues impacting the hospitality industry.
The issue of employee mental health is on the rise, he said, and an area of focus as part of M&R’s company’s culture. “We make it very clear we are available to our employees,” he said. “When employees feel stress, depression or anxiety, we want to acknowledge that and help support them.”
Cleo emphasized the importance of having a culture of open communication where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns without fear of stigma.
“By increasing awareness and education, we want to take away any stigma that has been associated with mental health,” he said. “We want to promote the dialogue and normalize the discussion.”
The company has significantly invested in its Employee Assistance Program, which is accessible online at espyr.com. The site offers easy access to mental health benefits, resources and tools, 24/7, that are available at no cost to employees and family members. Benefits include confidential counseling services and resources for mental health support, work-life balance and wellness. The program also offers self-help tools to address legal issues, financial planning, dependent care and education planning.
Additionally, the company offers monthly engagement activities and recognition opportunities to foster connections among employees and build a sense of support and community. Hotel general managers are encouraged to prioritize mental health and actively promote well-being at the property level to build happier, healthier teams.
“We try to offer a variety of benefits that foster employee well-being, such as yoga and meditation classes and on-property health-care events,” Cleo said. “Offering ‘wellness days’ serves as a reminder that we care not only about our team’s physical health but their mental health. We want to add ways for associates to rest, relax and rejuvenate.”
These initiatives are part of a larger effort to grow and evolve M&R’s workplace culture in an industry that can be demanding, with long hours and the need to provide excellent customer service to guests.
“When employees feel supported and valued, they perform better and contribute positively to the organization,” Cleo said. “We want to support our associates so they can truly reach their full potential, both at work and at home.”
To request services, call 800-869-0276 or visit espyr.com and enter the organization ID PaychexEAP
