One in 4 mothers resume work 10 days after birthing a child, according to PL+US: Paid Leave for the United States. Women detail issues they encounter upon return to work, including unsupportive managers, challenges with day care and managing postpartum depression on the job.

Companies that allow their employees to work remotely could save money and be more competitive, says tech professional John O'Duinn. More people are likely to apply for jobs where they can work remotely, and companies will be able to spend less money on desks and office-related needs for remote workers, he says.

Employers can increase their employees' access to health care through no-cost primary care visits using telemedicine, email sessions with specialists and having personal advocates that help people navigate the health care system, writes Adam Hodge of freshbenies. "With an email service to a variety of specialists, employees get 24/7 e-visit access to real doctors who respond directly to medical questions within a few hours and provide personalized advice," Hodge writes.

Employee wellness alone may not be enough, but a self-care program that also includes the workplace and encompasses the organization as a whole can help increase well-being, says trainer and psychotherapist Philip Chard. A team of employees, leaders and consultants should regularly assess a company's interpersonal culture and work processes to find out if they benefit or harm employee wellness, Chard says.