DELAWARE PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION
                   NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR
   2010 PSYCHOLOGICALLY HEALTHY WORKPLACE AWARDS

The Delaware Psychological Association (DPA) is accepting online applications for the 2010 Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards (PHWA). The award program, sponsored in conjunction with the American Psychological Association (APA), recognizes organizations that make a commitment to programs and policies that foster employee health and well-being while enhancing organizational performance and productivity. 

Small, medium and large non-profit and for-profit Delaware businesses are encouraged to apply. Each applicant will be evaluated on its workplace practices in the following areas: employee involvement; health and safety; employee growth and development; work-life balance; and employee recognition.   Click here for additional information on the PHWA evaluation criteria.

“Employers are continuing to realize the benefits of a workplace that is sensitive to their employees’ health and well-being,” says Dr. Cynthia Diefenbeck, Assistant Professor of Nursing at the University of Delaware, and DPA’s PHWA representative.  “In years past, the Delaware Psychological Association, in conjunction with the American Psychological Association, recognized several local organizations for their psychologically healthy workplace practices. But there are many more companies out there who have yet to make the same commitment.  We hope the organizations we honor can serve as models for other employers.”  Click here to see a list of past Delaware award winners.

Employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of maintaining the physical and mental health of their employees. The business benefits of a healthy mind and body for employees include reduced absenteeism, turnover, reduced health care costs and a work environment that fosters increased employee satisfaction and productivity.  With the ongoing financial crisis and unemployment reaching double-digit percentage levels in some locations, maximizing employee wellbeing is integral to continued employee mental and physical health.  The Psychologically Healthy Workplace Award program is designed to educate employers about and to encourage employers to create a positive work environment.

For additional information about the award program or the application process, interested employers may visit the American Psychological Association award program website or contact DPA by email at admin@depsych.org or by telephone at (302) 475-1574.