The Evolution Since Tokyo 2020/2021
By Sarah Brennan | July 2024
Remember the Tokyo Olympics? As we were preparing for Simone Biles, gymnastics’ GOAT (Greatest of All Time), to bring home gold for the United States, she made a surprising decision. Biles withdrew from the competition, prioritizing her well-being over medals. This powerful moment sent shockwaves through the world, igniting a global conversation about mental health.
Historically, mental health hasn’t received the respect it deserves, but Biles’ bravery sparked conversation, and that conversation has led to action. Let’s explore what’s changed in the mental health and wellness industry since then.
Teletherapy Takes Center Stage
The pandemic accelerated teletherapy’s popularity, and it’s here to stay. For busy individuals, accessing quality therapy from home or the office is a game-changer. Many who felt hesitant about visiting a therapist’s office can now discreetly seek help from their own space.
Apps for Every Need
From meditation guides to personalized therapy programs, pocket-sized tools offer on-the-go mental health support.
Employer Support Grows
Companies now recognize the link between employee well-being and productivity. Forward-thinking businesses now offer comprehensive benefits packages that include mental health resources, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and stress-reduction workshops.
Focus Shifts to Prevention
The mental health conversation is moving from crisis intervention to preventative care. We’re seeing a rise in programs promoting healthy sleep habits, mindfulness techniques, and emotional intelligence training.
Work Still to Be Done
While progress is undeniable, areas for improvement remain:
Accessibility: Mental health services can be expensive, and insurance navigation is often challenging. Access to affordable care is increasing but not yet widespread.
Destigmatization: Discussing mental health in the workplace should be as normal as talking about physical health.
Tailored Solutions: Mental health resources aren’t one-size-fits-all. We need personalized programs catering to individual needs and preferences.
By increasing accessibility, encouraging care, and providing diverse avenues for mental health support, we can help people find comfortable ways to address their needs.
Simone Biles’ act of courage wasn’t just about her own performance at the Olympics; it was about how all of us show up to our jobs. Her bravery forced us to acknowledge the importance of mental health and its impact on how we perform. The conversation has begun, and the industry is rapidly evolving.
Archetype’s vendor analysis can help identify the best mental health solution for your team, minimizing disruption and integrating seamlessly into your current benefits offerings. Contact hello@archetypegrowth.com to learn more.