ABSTRACT
This introduction sets the stage for the chapters that follow. Factors that diminish or enhance levels of individual and organizational health are identified from the literature. A case is then made for the benefits of individual- and organizational-level interventions, although the evidence is mixed. Here we present a number of different interventions, efforts undertaken by researchers and organizations together, to improve the mental and physical health of employees through a number of different change initiatives. Some interventions target individuals and their attitudes and behaviours, others target workplace relationships, still others target work units and wider organizational features. Outcomes include various individual health and well-being outcomes such as levels of smoking, obesity, depression, elevated levels of blood pressure, accidents and workplace injuries, and absence and turnover. We identify factors associated with the success of these interventions (e.g. clear goals, top management commitment, employee participation) and indicate how interested individuals and organizations might proceed to develop worksite interventions on their own. These themes, and others, are addressed in more detail in the following contributions.
