Phoenix-based U-Haul International Inc., which operates more than 1,500 self-storage facilities across North America, is expanding its employee benefits and resources to address mental health. The company is partnering with ComPsych, a provider of employee-assistance programs, to offer its 30,000 employees comprehensive mental and emotional support at no cost, according to a press release.

The “You Matter” program is part of U-Haul’s “Healthier U” initiative, which the company launched four years ago to address employee wellness across four areas: health, mindset, nutrition and fitness. The new program provides all employees and their households access to ComPsych’s professional counseling staff, regardless of whether they’re enrolled in the U-Haul’s medical plan or other benefits. They can receive up to five sessions per issue per year for an unlimited number of life situations. The program addresses a wide scope of wellness needs and includes a concierge service to assist with challenges such as finding childcare, or obtaining legal or financial advice.

“It is often overlooked in our society, but acknowledging and addressing mental health is very important,” said John “J.T.” Taylor, president of U-Haul. “These issues are real, growing; and in so many cases, people don't know where to obtain help.”

Addressing mental health is part of a broader U-Haul initiative to empower employees to improve their overall well-being and work-life balance. “A complete wellness program means meeting the mental, physical and financial needs of our team,” Taylor said. “We want to be sure that we are taking the best possible care of our team members and their families. If we take care of our team members, they will take care of our customers.”

The service is available via phone 24/7 in English, French and Spanish. Employees also have access to an online portal, with a private login and guaranteed confidentiality. U-Haul can also request onsite counselors in specific scenarios.

“The overall health of team members and their families has always been a top priority at U-Haul,” said Monique Wantland, the company’s wellness-program manager. “We often issue company-wide surveys, and the response to mental wellness was overwhelming. We had to do more. This new partnership offers the tools to move forward. We want to make our team members’ lives easier and truly support them.”

“Healthier U” offers gym and personal-trainer reimbursements, nicotine-cessation assistance, registered dietitian plans, health fairs, healthy foods served in the corporate café and vending machines, and more.

Established in 1945 and based in Phoenix, U-Haul operates more than 1,500 self-storage facilities across North America and owns more than 38 million square feet of storage space.

Source:
PR Newswire, U-Haul Expands Employee Benefits to Address Mental Health