Pandemic fuels addiction, sleep apnea risks for women | Labor issues final rule on independent contractors | How leaders are addressing the US Capitol riot
The risk of drug and alcohol addiction among women has spiked 65% since September and their risk of sleep apnea also has increased 126% over the past 10 months, according to the latest Mental Health Index from Total Brain. The report also shows that, for workers overall, the risk of depression is up 66% since the beginning of the pandemic, and Total Brain CEO Louis Gagnon advises employers to invest in both the physical and mental well-being of their workforce. Full Story: Human Resource Executive (1/7)
Last week's first-time unemployment claims totaled 787K The Department of Labor reported on Thursday that first-time unemployment claims totaled 787,000 for the week ending Jan. 2, a decrease from the 790,000 filed for the previous week. Data showed the number of people in all unemployment compensation programs decreased to 19.2 million. Full Story: CNBC (1/7)
The HR Leader
Employees are suffering from too much change Constant change at work and the continuing uncertainty of the pandemic are causing stress, burnout and lost productivity, which means HR and other leaders need to encourage trust and peer bonding along with traditional steps like employee assistance programs. "We also want to ensure that people are open and don't feel scared about saying that 'this is too much' or 'I'm overwhelmed,' " says Armaan Seth, HR head at Syngenta Asia Pacific. Full Story: Human Resources Director (tiered subscription model) (1/5)
Workplace Chatter
"Stolen" chairs come home with repairs, anonymous note Two old chairs disappeared from the driveway of two New Mexico college students just before the holidays, but it turns out they weren't stolen, just borrowed by an unknown party to add a paint job and new seats. The chairs were returned with a note extolling the virtues of good deeds, says student Conrad Duran. Full Story: KRQE-TV (Albuquerque, N.M.) (1/5)
About the Editor
Kanoe Namahoe
I'm a girl from Maui -- with a weakness for chocolate, pinot noir and sports -- covering the latest news and trends in the workforce and K-20 education. Success in an organization isn't a matter of luck. It's the product of consistency and intentional work. NBA champion Kevin Garnett said it best: "I don't play to sweat, I play to win." How can SmartBrief on Workforce help you better manage your teams and organization? What stories matter to you? What information do you need? Let me know. Your voice matters. Seriously. I read every email I get from readers. So don't be shy -- drop me a line!
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