ValueOptions® Addresses Sleep Crisis in the Workplace with Latest Education Initiative
“Sleep Better to Live Better: Program Tools for Leaders” promotes the importance of sleep with educational tools and support materials for employers
Norfolk, Va — JULY 7, 2008
ValueOptions®, Inc., the nation's largest independent behavioral health care company, has announced a new behavioral health education initiative that addresses the importance of sleep in the workplace. “Sleep Better to Live Better: Program Tools for Leaders” is aimed at raising awareness among employer groups that sleep is vital to good health, productivity and job safety. The initiative also equips employers to take action.
According to the National Institutes of Health, between 50 million and 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep disorders. Lack of adequate sleep costs companies an estimated $18 billion each year in lost productivity and accidents. Studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also show that poor sleep habits are linked to medical problems such as obesity, high blood pressure and gastrointestinal diseases. Additionally, poor sleep has an adverse effect on behavioral health, resulting in memory loss, reduced concentration, anxiety and irritability.
“Despite what many people think, the human body cannot adjust to fewer hours of sleep,” said Rich Paul, vice president, Health and Performance Solutions. “In fact, most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep a day to function at their best. We developed a sleep education program with the message that well-rested people are more mentally focused and productive on the job and feel better overall.”
The ValueOptions® sleep education initiative for clients provides consultative materials, training, a CD and a Web-based educational tools located in the Client section of its corporate Web site at www.valueoptions.com/clients/Education_Center.htm. ValueOptions® will also host a series of client presentations on the topic of sleep throughout July 2008 featuring participants from several Fortune 500 companies. Guest speakers will include Chris Pawson, Owens Corning’s employee assistance program manager and Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan, an internationally renowned physiologist and sleep expert.
ValueOptions® has also produced an online sleep education tool for members to help people identify and change unhealthy sleep habits. “Sleep Better to Live Better: Solutions for Members” is located on the ValueOptions® homepage at www.valueoptions.com.