The workplace is where most people spend a substantial portion of their lives. It plays a crucial role in shaping our mental wellbeing. Forming positive workplace habits is essential for maintaining good mental health.
1. Open Communication
Effective communication is the foundation of a mentally healthy workplace. By encouraging open discussions, it builds trust amongst colleagues and employers. Employers and employees should feel comfortable sharing concerns and ideas, creating an atmosphere where they feel supported.
2. Being Organised
There is some truth behind the saying ‘a cluttered desk, is a cluttered mind’. Studies have found that people working in a clean uncluttered environment feel generally more productive and more able to manage their time effectively.
3. Work Life Balance
Maintaining a healthy work life balance is key for mental health. Employers can promote this by setting reasonable expectations for work hours, encouraging breaks, and discouraging out of hours working. On the other hand, employees should also attempt to disconnect from work during their personal time.
4. Stress Management
Work related stress is very common. Although employers should help by providing resources such as stress management programs or employee assistance programs – it is important that employees can also learn to manage stress through techniques for example deep breathing, meditation and time management.
5. Promoting Good Health
We all know that regular physical activity and a nutritional well-balanced diet has a profoundly positive impact on mental health. Both employers and employees should strive to encourage that balance.
6. Flexible Work Schedule
Flexibility in work hours and remote work options can contribute to better mental health. Employees who have the freedom to structure their workday around personal needs experience less stress and are generally more satisfied with their jobs.
7. Recognition & Appreciation
Acknowledging and appreciating employee work and achievements can boost morale and overall job satisfaction. Employers should establish recognition programs, and give employees opportunity to express gratitude towards their colleagues, creating a positive and supportive workplace culture.
8. Professional Development
Learning and growth opportunities enhance job satisfaction. Employers should invest in training and development programs, while employees can take the initiative to seek out new skills and advance in their careers if they so wish.
9. Clear Goals & Expectations
Setting clear expectations and goals reduces stress and anxiety in the workplace. Employers should feel able to communicate job roles and tasks clearly, while employees should seek clarification when needed to avoid misunderstandings that could lead to unnecessary pressure.
10. Mental Health Support
Promoting mental health awareness and offering access to mental health resources is vital. Employers should provide information on available support and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help. Employees should not hesitate to seek assistance when they are struggling with their mental health.
A mentally healthy workplace is one where employees can thrive both professionally and personally. By adopting these workplace habits, employers and employees can contribute to a positive work environment that promotes good mental health. Ultimately, prioritising mental wellbeing benefits not only individuals but also the organisation as a whole, leading to increased productivity, innovation and overall job satisfaction.
