Cecilia Hellström, Workplace Well-being Director

Workplace wellbeing is defined by a holistic approach that embraces physical, mental, and emotional health. 

With a background as an elite gymnast and a passion for understanding the remarkable capabilities of the female body, I bring a holistic approach to workplace wellbeing at Lifesum. A dedicated runner and mother, I thrive on creating environments that empower health and productivity—and when I’m not shaping wellness strategies, you’ll likely find me perfecting a recipe or embracing life outdoors. 

Five trends transforming workplace wellbeing
The workplace is experiencing a revolution in how wellbeing is approached. No longer confined to superficial perks, wellbeing initiatives are now rooted in a deeper understanding of employees’ holistic health, longevity, and productivity. These trends highlight a shift towards proactive, personalized, and impactful strategies, and the integration of technology, especially AI, that support the workforce in meaningful ways.

1. Holistic and preventative health: A proactive approach
Employers are transitioning from reactive measures to proactive wellbeing strategies that address the "whole person." Holistic health now considers how interconnected factors like sleep, mental health, nutrition, and stress management influence overall wellbeing. Companies are leveraging the philosophy of "healthspan over lifespan" to increase years of optimal health rather than merely extending life expectancy.

The integration of technology, especially AI, is pivotal in identifying early signs of health issues. Advanced tools can monitor patterns such as absenteeism, flagging concerns before they escalate into major problems. Programs that incorporate fitness, nutrition, and mental health support are also being reimagined with a focus on prevention. This approach not only benefits employees by improving their quality of life but also reduces long-term health care costs for employers, underscoring the “prevention is better than cure” adage.

2. The rise of longevity and functional health
In 2025, longevity and functional health have become integral to workplace wellness programs. Direct-to-consumer blood testing of the type offered by Lifesum following its acquisition of Lykon will allow employers to scientifically validate their health, improve it, and access tools to change their behavior and stay on track, in a convenient and affordable manner.

This approach is revolutionizing how employees manage their health by providing actionable insights into hormonal levels, micro- and macro-nutrients, and overall body function. These tests establish baseline health data that can be tracked over time, empowering employees to take control of their personalized health journeys.

This trend aligns with a broader focus on increasing "functional years," where employees not only live longer but remain healthier and more active for extended periods. As workplaces adopt these technologies, they’re fostering a culture of empowerment, helping individuals make informed lifestyle choices that support both personal and professional goals.

3. Nutrition as the cornerstone of workplace performance
Nutrition is no longer seen as a personal choice but as a critical lever for workplace productivity and employee satisfaction. The role of diet in regulating energy, hormonal balance, brain function, and even sleep is well-established. Forward-thinking employers are offering initiatives that include nutritious meal options, education on dietary choices, and partnerships with wellness platforms like Lifesum to encourage better habits.

Research underscores the importance of such programs. A 2024 Lifesum study revealed that nearly half of Gen Z and millennial employees (48%) would consider leaving a job that doesn't adequately support their wellbeing. 

Companies prioritizing nutritional support not only enhance engagement and retention but also drive improved productivity and morale. Tailored interventions, such as Lifesum’s Hormonal Health Meal Plan, are examples of how businesses can provide personalized dietary guidance to support their teams effectively.

4. Mental health: from awareness to action
Mental health continues to be a top priority for employers, especially as younger generations demand meaningful support. Beyond offering counseling services, organizations are delving into the relationship between mental health, gut health, and nutrition. This nuanced understanding of how dietary choices influence mental resilience is inspiring new kinds of workplace programs.

And mental health is a significant challenge for both Gen Z and millennials. In a 2024 Lifesum survey of 5,000 Gen Z and Millennials, 81% said they would quit their jobs tomorrow due to stress, and 48% said that work-related stress affected their personal lives. 

Furthermore, there’s a growing emphasis on creating psychologically safe environments where employees feel supported. Initiatives like mental health workshops, peer support networks, and stigma reduction campaigns are evolving to address the diverse needs of a multigenerational workforce. By integrating mental health into broader wellbeing programs, companies are demonstrating a genuine commitment to their teams’ overall wellness.

5. Building connections through positivity and recognition
The cultural aspect of wellbeing is gaining prominence as organizations recognize the power of positivity and recognition in fostering a thriving workplace. Simple gestures, such as acknowledging achievements, expressing gratitude, or building personal connections, can have profound effects on morale and engagement.

Company-sponsored activities, from casual after-work gatherings to wellness challenges, further enhance camaraderie and connection. These initiatives address the isolation that can accompany remote or hybrid work, helping employees feel part of a cohesive community. A culture of kindness and recognition not only boosts individual wellbeing but also contributes to a more productive and harmonious work environment. 

Workplace wellbeing in 2025 is defined by a holistic approach that embraces physical, mental, and emotional health. With advancements in AI, personalized health insights, and a renewed focus on connection, companies are creating ecosystems where employees can truly thrive. These trends underscore a critical realization: investing in wellbeing is not just about supporting employees - it’s about building resilient, engaged, and innovative teams capable of shaping the future of work.

By aligning these trends with actionable strategies, employers can lead the charge in creating healthier, happier workplaces that attract and retain the best talent.