A CLOSER LOOK AT WORKPLACE WELLNESS DURING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK

Mental Health Awareness Week serves as a crucial reminder to prioritise our mental well-being and create a workplace environment that fosters a healthy mind. As an employee it’s essential to recognise the significance of mental health and actively contribute to a positive working atmosphere.

Whether your company in a small business or a corporate organisation, it’s crucial to look after your employees’ mental health this week and during every other week of the year. So, we are going to explore the importance of mental health within the workplace and discuss practical workplace wellness ideas, benefits and solutions that can seamlessly be incorporated into daily routine.

Understanding the importance of mental health in the workplace

Start by highlighting the prevalence of mental health issues in the workplace and the impact they can have on employees’ overall well-being. Discuss the positive correlation between well-being and productivity, emphasising that a mentally healthy workforce is a more engaged and efficient one._[1]

Break the stigma

Encourage open conversations about mental health by sharing personal experiences or stories of overcoming challenges. Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is crucial to creating an environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help when needed._[2]

Implement flexible working arrangements

Explore the benefit of flexible working arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours. Empower employees to manage their work in a way that suits their individual needs, promoting a healthier work-life balance._[3]

Foster a supportive culture

Discuss the importance of a supportive workplace culture where colleagues look out for one another. Encourage team-building activities and initiatives that promote positive relationships, creating a sense of community within the company._[4]

Introduce mindfulness practices

Integrate mindfulness into the workday with short meditation sessions, breathing exercises or designated quiet spaces. These practices can help reduce stress, improve focus and contribute to a more relaxed and positive work environment._[5]

Provide mental health resources

Highlight available mental health resources within the workplace, such as counselling services or workshops. Ensure that employees are aware of these resources and feel comfortable in utilising them._[6]

Encourage physical activity

Discuss the connection between physical activity and mental well-being. Encourage short breaks for stretching, walking or quick exercises during the workday to boost energy levels and enhance mood._[7]

Establish clear communication channels

Emphasise the importance of clear communication channels for employees to express concerns or share feedback. Regular check-ins with managers and colleagues can help create a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels heard and valued._[8]

As an employee, your active involvement in promoting mental health awareness within the workplace can significantly contribute to a positive and thriving working environment. By incorporating these workplace wellness ideas into your daily routine, you not only enhance your own well-being but also inspire a culture of mental health awareness that benefits the entire organisation. Lyreco were recently delighted to have released a comprehensive guide called the Lyreco Wellness Brochure, which provides a holistic approach to enhancing wellness within the workplace. The brochure dives into emotional, physical, environmental and social wellness, which creates an empowering and thriving working environment that works. Together, in Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond, we can prioritise mental health and foster a workplace where everyone can thrive.

References:

[1]: productivity and well-being (NR) (ilo.org)

[2]: Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness – Mayo Clinic

[3]: Remote work isn’t hurting our mental well-being. The lack of work-life boundaries is | Fortune

[4]: Proof That Positive Work Cultures Are More Productive (hbr.org)

[5]: 10 Ways to be More Mindful at Work

[6]: Mental Health in the Workplace: Why Support Is So Important (betterup.com)

[7]: How to look after your mental health using exercise | Mental Health Foundation [8]: Improve Employee Mental Health With Effective Workplace Communication (forbes.com)