Fostering Inclusion for Business Excellence: Wellness and Neurodiversity at Applied

At Applied, we’re not just leading the charge in Insurtech for agencies; we also prioritize cultivating a workplace where inclusion and well-being are paramount.

In recent months, we’ve had the opportunity to reflect on essential themes: Neurodiversity Awareness, Mental Health Awareness, and Stress Awareness. These themes underscore the transformative potential of diverse minds and holistic wellness in the professional space.

At Applied, our IndispensAbility Community of Interest has been sharing information around these topics and spearheading initiatives to increase awareness among our teammates. Let’s explore how embracing neurodiversity and wellness creates workplaces that drive business excellence while championing the needs of all individuals.

Neurodiversity and Autism Awareness

April’s recognition of Neurodiversity and Autism Awareness Month brought attention to the value of neurologically diverse minds. Neurodiversity encompasses variations such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions, offering unique strengths that align seamlessly with the needs of complex industries like insurance. Neurodiverse individuals often shine in areas like pattern recognition, detail orientation, innovative problem-solving, and critical skills.

Actionable Strategies to Embrace Neurodiversity

Here are some of the ways insurance agencies can create environments that support neurodiverse employees and clients:

• Sensory-Friendly Workspaces: Offer options that respect sensitivity to noise and lighting, promoting focus during high-pressure tasks.

• Clear Communication Protocols: Use direct, specific instructions and documented processes to eliminate ambiguity in compliance-heavy operations.

• Adaptive Client Engagement: Recognize diverse communication styles. Some clients may prefer visual aids, while others process information better in writing.

Mental Health Awareness: Supporting Employee Wellness

As we enter May, IndispensAbility at Applied focuses on Mental Health Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of holistic support for employees’ minds. In a high-performance industry like insurance, mental health and wellness are key to maintaining sharpness and resilience in demanding environments.

Applied’s IndispensAbility initiatives go beyond neurodiversity to foster employee wellness. Normalizing mental health conversations and equipping employees with mindfulness tools allow everyone, not just those with specific diagnoses, to thrive.

“At Applied, we’re committed to fostering a workplace where mental well-being is valued, supported and prioritized, not just this month, but every day,” said Tarra Seawright, senior diversity & inclusion manager at Applied. “Let’s break the stigma, uplift one another and continue building a culture of care and connection.”

Applied is committed to supporting employees' physical, financial, and mental well-being, and offers programs designed to promote healthy lifestyles, financial education, and stress management to achieve a balanced life at work and beyond. These initiatives complement the efforts of our IndispensAbility Community of Interest, fostering a holistic approach to well-being at Applied.

Wellness Practices for Insurance Professionals

To create a more inclusive and supportive environment for neurodiverse employees and clients, here are some actionable strategies:

• Mindful Breaks: Encourage cognitive refreshes throughout the day to maintain focus during complex reviews.

• Stress Management: Offer techniques and resources designed for high-pressure situations.

• Accessible Support Systems: Promote mental health resources and normalize asking for help, building a workplace culture of empathy and connection.

Shaping Inclusive Insurance Workplaces

The IndispensAbility Community of Interest at Applied drives initiatives that help employees integrate diverse talents while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. With resources and education produced by our community of interest, we aim to reduce stigma and foster workplaces where everyone thrives. Explore our other Life at Applied blog articles that celebrate Applied’s culture and inclusivity, including neurodiversity and Autism Acceptance.