18 ways to celebrate World Health Day at work
VIWELL team
Last updated April 4, 2025
Table of Contents:
1. Health and wellness workshops
2. Incorporate virtual fitness challenges
3. Volunteer for health causes
6. Encourage healthy eating during work
7. Host a fundraising event for a health cause
8. Provide ergonomic workstations
12. Plan fitness and sports activities
13. Offer employees a paid health day
15. Educate employees on health resource
18. Gift greenery or plant a garden
World Health Day, observed annually on April 7, raises awareness about global health issues and well-being. Established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948, it highlights key health challenges and promotes better health for all. Each year, WHO selects a theme to address a pressing health issue, such as mental health, climate change, or universal health coverage. These themes encourage global action to improve health outcomes and ensure better access to healthcare. Though not traditionally celebrated in the workplace, World Health Day serves as a reminder of the importance of health in both our personal and professional lives. Acknowledging this day at work offers employers the chance to focus on employee wellness. By promoting health awareness, providing wellness programs, and encouraging healthier habits, companies can create a positive work culture that supports both physical and mental well-being. This not only benefits employees but also boosts productivity, job satisfaction, and overall team morale. In this article, we’ll explore 18 ways to promote employee health and wellness on World Health Day and beyond. These strategies can help build a healthier, more motivated workforce.
1. Health and wellness workshops
Health workshops are a great way to support your employees' physical and mental well-being. Invite experts like nutritionists, mindfulness coaches, or fitness trainers to provide practical tips on stress management, healthy eating, and fitness. These workshops empower employees with knowledge to improve their health, showing your commitment to their overall well-being.
Example:
For instance, you could host a “mindful eating and stress relief” workshop where a certified nutritionist explains how certain foods impact stress levels and overall mood. A mindfulness coach could then lead a short meditation session to help employees manage stress throughout their workday. These combined activities not only give employees tools to manage their health but also foster a supportive, wellness-oriented company culture.
2. Incorporate virtual fitness challenges
Make World Health Day even more exciting by launching virtual fitness challenges that inspire employees to prioritize their physical health. From daily step goals to virtual marathons, yoga sessions, or team fitness activities, there are endless ways to get everyone moving. Research shows that regular physical activity not only boosts physical health but also improves mood, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.
Using platforms like VIWELL, companies can easily organize and track these fitness challenges, while providing fun incentives—think fitness-related prizes or public recognition—for active participation. These challenges encourage friendly competition, making healthy habits even more motivating. Whether it's a one-off event on World Health Day or a series of ongoing challenges, options like step, sleep, sustainability, and digital detox challenges can keep employees engaged while promoting well-being in an exciting and interactive way.
3. Volunteer for health causes
Volunteering for health causes is a powerful way to engage employees and make a positive impact in the community. Employers can provide opportunities for employees to get involved in initiatives that promote health and wellness, such as charity runs, health education programs, or community health screenings. This not only helps employees develop new skills and broaden their horizons but also strengthens their connection to meaningful causes. Offering paid volunteer days can further encourage participation and highlight the company’s commitment to social responsibility.
Focusing on health-related volunteering not only benefits the community but also boosts employee satisfaction. Studies show that organizations that encourage volunteerism see improvements in productivity, profitability, and employee retention. Platforms like VIWELL make it easy for companies to organize and manage CSR initiatives focused on well-being, ensuring employees can actively contribute to causes that matter most.
4. Promote Mental health care
Mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and substance use are on the rise in the workplace. In 2023, 77% of employers reported an increase in mental health issues, up from 44% just a year earlier. Unfortunately, many employees still struggle to access the care they need due to barriers like cost, lack of awareness, and rigid work schedules.
To support mental well-being, companies can implement policies that provide continuous access to mental health care. Offering mental health training for all staff, enhancing health insurance coverage, and cultivating a supportive culture are key steps. Platforms like VIWELL’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can also help by offering confidential counseling, resources, and support for employees dealing with mental health challenges. Additionally, providing flexible work hours or incentives for employees seeking treatment can break down barriers and create a more supportive environment. Celebrating World Health Day by prioritizing mental health care is an impactful way to demonstrate your commitment to employee well-being.
5. Provide First Aid training
World Health Day highlights the importance of healthcare equity—ensuring everyone has access to critical health services and training. As part of your World Health Day initiatives, consider scheduling a first aid course for your team. Even if your workplace isn’t high-risk, first aid knowledge is crucial for handling emergencies effectively and safely, both at work and in daily life.
Training your employees in first aid, CPR, and AED equips them with life-saving skills and enhances workplace safety. You can partner with local providers in Dubai like King's College Hospital or First Response Healthcare, all offering certified courses in first aid and CPR. Additionally, offering mental health first aid training can help employees recognize and respond to mental health challenges, promoting a more supportive and caring workplace environment. It’s a great way to invest in your team’s well-being and safety.
6. Encourage healthy eating during work
We’ve all been there—stuck in a long workday and reaching for quick, unhealthy snacks, especially those sugary ones that give a brief burst of energy. While you can’t control everyone’s diet, you can definitely encourage healthier choices by offering better alternatives. A simple step, like providing free fruits—think apples—is a great start. Apples are not only affordable but also packed with slow-releasing fructose, which keeps energy levels steady without the dreaded sugar crash.
Healthy snacks help maintain focus and prevent that afternoon slump. For remote employees, you can take it a step further by sharing easy, nutrient-rich snack and meal ideas to promote healthier eating habits. To celebrate World Health Day, consider sending healthy snack boxes to the office or directly to your remote teams. Small changes like these can make a big difference in boosting both health and productivity!
7. Host a fundraising event for a health cause
Organizing a fundraising event for a health-focused nonprofit on World Health Day is a powerful way to give back to the community. It’s an opportunity to unite your team around a meaningful cause, strengthening bonds and boosting job satisfaction. Supporting such initiatives also highlights your company’s commitment to social responsibility, enhancing its image both internally and externally.
In addition to making a positive impact on society, hosting a fundraiser can provide valuable tax benefits for your business. So, it’s not just a charitable effort—it’s a smart way to elevate your company’s reputation while encouraging employee engagement and dedication.
8. Provide ergonomic workstations
Invest in ergonomic workstations to reduce the risk of back pain and musculoskeletal issues. Adjustable chairs, standing desks, and wrist supports help employees maintain proper posture, reducing discomfort and increasing productivity. It shows you care about their physical health and comfort.
9. Organize a health fair
A health fair is a fun and informative way to celebrate World Health Day and promote a wellness culture in your workplace. It’s a great opportunity to bring in local health experts—doctors, nutritionists, fitness trainers, and mental health professionals—to share valuable insights with your team.
Covering a range of topics like nutrition, mental health, physical fitness, disease prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices, the fair helps employees take charge of their health. You can also offer activities like yoga and meditation sessions, along with quick health checks like blood pressure screenings. It’s a great way to encourage employees to stay on top of their well-being while fostering a healthier, more engaged work environment!
10. Employee giving campaign
Launching an employee giving campaign focused on health organizations or charities is a powerful way to rally support for important causes. These campaigns not only showcase your company’s commitment to philanthropy but also empower employees to contribute to causes they care about. Studies show that organizations with strong employee giving programs experience higher engagement levels and a workforce driven by purpose.
By using platforms like VIWELL, companies can streamline donation and fundraising efforts, making it easier for employees to get involved and support initiatives that improve healthcare access and services. It’s a great way to inspire meaningful action and make a positive impact, both within the company and in the wider community.
11. Health and safety drives
Partnering with local organizations or NGOs to organize health and safety drives is a powerful way to give back to the community and create a positive impact. Whether it's distributing hygiene kits, hosting blood donation camps, providing first aid training, or offering health screenings, these activities help address essential health and safety needs.
By participating in these initiatives, your company shows a strong commitment to social responsibility and plays an active role in building safer, healthier communities. Not only do these drives foster a sense of pride and fulfillment among employees, but they also enhance your organization’s reputation as a socially responsible business—making a meaningful difference both locally and globally.
12. Plan fitness and sports activities
Get your team moving and energized by organizing fun fitness and sports activities for World Health Day! Whether it’s a group yoga session, a high-energy Zumba class, or an exciting basketball or soccer tournament, these activities are a great way to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and overall well-being.
Partner with fitness trainers or sports instructors to ensure there’s something for everyone, regardless of fitness level. These engaging activities not only boost physical health but also strengthen team bonds and create a lively, positive atmosphere in the workplace. It’s a great way to celebrate World Health Day while encouraging employees to embrace a healthy, active lifestyle!
13. Offer employees a paid health day
Surprising employees with a paid health day is a great way to demonstrate the company’s commitment to their well-being. This day off allows them to invest in any dimension of their well-being, whether getting active or attending doctor appointments for their physical health, enjoying free time with friends or co-workers for their social well-being, or taking a mental rest and recharge day.
14. Provide a healthy lunch
Boost employee engagement by catering a healthy lunch to the office, giving everyone a chance to bond over nutritious food while fostering a culture of wellness. For remote employees, send a voucher or arrange a meal delivery service to make them feel included. It’s a thoughtful way to promote healthy eating habits and show your team that their well-being is valued, both in and outside the office.
15. Educate employees on health resource
Help employees take full advantage of the health resources available to them! Host a Q&A session to highlight company health benefits that may be underutilized, and share top fitness programs, meal subscriptions, and wellness tools. It’s a great opportunity to empower your team with the knowledge they need to prioritize their health and well-being.
16. Create a “safe space”
Create an informal, optional "dialogue space" where employees can openly discuss mental health, identity, and other sensitive topics in a non-judgmental environment. You can also set up employee resource groups for those who share common experiences, providing regular support and connection. It’s a simple way to foster openness and create a supportive, inclusive workplace.
17. Get moving
Get the team moving with a fun outdoor activity like a walk, bike ride, rock climbing, or kayaking. It’s a great way to bond with colleagues while staying active—plus, the fresh air and vitamin D are an added bonus!
18. Gift greenery or plant a garden
Research shows that plants boost productivity and well-being, so why not gift your team some greenery to brighten their workspace? Alternatively, get everyone together to plant a garden, growing fresh fruits and veggies for healthy workday snacks. It’s a simple, fun way to promote wellness and create a more vibrant work environment!
How to support employee health beyond World Health Day
While celebrating World Health Day is a great way to show your company’s commitment to well-being, it’s essential to create a lasting culture of health that extends beyond just one day. Employers should integrate health-focused policies and practices into the daily workplace, from encouraging mental breaks and providing healthy snacks to offering flexible work arrangements that support work-life balance.
Leadership can set the tone by participating in health initiatives and recognizing employees who do the same. A tailored wellness program that addresses all aspects of well-being—physical, mental, and emotional—helps employees maintain consistent healthy habits.
Regular donations to global health organizations chosen by employees can keep the World Health Day spirit alive throughout the year, highlighting your company’s commitment to impactful causes.
Final Thoughts
World Health Day serves as a reminder of the importance of global health, and organizations play a key role in promoting this message. Creating a culture of health in the workplace not only boosts productivity but also fosters employee engagement and well-being. If you're looking for a simple way to celebrate World Health Day and integrate health initiatives year-round, VIWELL can help.
Book a demo today to discover how our platform can support employee wellness and engagement!
