IMPACT OF WORKPLACE WELLNESS PROGRAMMES ON EMPLOYEE MENTAL HEALTH AND PRODUCTIVITY-PROF'S WIFE.docx

Workplace wellness programmes have gained global attention for their potential to enhance employee mental health and productivity. However, limited research exists on their impact in the Nigerian manufacturing sector. This study investigates the influence of workplace wellness programmes on employee mental health and productivity in five purposively selected manufacturing companies within Isolo Industrial Estate, Lagos State. The problem lies in the increasing prevalence of workplace stress and its adverse effects on employee performance and organizational success in Nigeria, necessitating the implementation of wellness initiatives. The study’s objectives were to examine the impact of wellness programmes on employee mental health, assess their relationship with productivity, and evaluate the effectiveness of different programme components. Using an Ex Post Facto Research Design, data were collected from 100 respondents (10 junior, 5 senior, and 5 management staff from each company) through structured questionnaires. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that wellness programme participants reported significantly lower stress levels and higher productivity than non-participants. Mental health counselling emerged as the most effective component, followed by stress management workshops and fitness activities. The study concludes that workplace wellness programmes are essential for reducing stress and enhancing productivity in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. The study recommends that companies should prioritize mental health counselling and evaluate wellness initiatives periodically for continuous improvement. Also, the researchers recommended that organizations should periodically evaluate the effectiveness of their wellness programmes using employee feedback and productivity data.