Matters of the mind: Unlocking workplace wellbeing
Wellbeing is a term used frequently in modern media and culture, but what exactly does it mean and why is it relevant to the workplace?
Mental health and wellbeing are inseparable concepts.
Mental health refers to our psychological, emotional and social state. It encompasses our thoughts, feelings and how we face life’s challenges. Wellbeing is a broader concept that includes mental health but also includes physical health, purpose, relationships and overall life satisfaction.
Mental health provides the foundation for an individual’s overall wellbeing. When mental health is supported and nurtured, people are more equipped to manage life’s stresses, build positive relationships and habits and perform at their full potential.
Does mental health and wellbeing really affect UK workplaces?
The impact of poor mental health and wellbeing on workplaces has been the subject of several research studies in recent times. The following findings reflect the profound impact of mental health and wellbeing on our workplaces:
–The cost of poor mental health to the UK economy is between £74billion and £99billion per year.
-0.9 million workers in the UK are suffering from work related stress, depression or anxiety (new or long-standing) in 2022/23.
-14% of employees said they resigned because of workplace stress.
-30% of employees said they wouldn’t feel able to talk openly with their line manager if stressed.
-More than 1 in 5 workers said they called in sick to avoid work.
How can improved wellbeing benefit the workplace?
A supportive environment that prioritises mental health and wellbeing can make a profound difference to both individuals and the overall organisation.
Benefits of prioritising mental health and wellbeing at work include:
1: Boosting performance and productivity: Employees with good mental health are more focused, creative and resilient. Conversely, high stress and burnout can erode an employee’s productivity and engagement.
2: Reducing absenteeism and presenteeism: Supporting mental health reduces stress-related absences and prevents presenteeism- this is when an individual is present at work physically but is unable to perform effectively due to mental strain.
3: Enhancing engagement and retention: If wellbeing is taken seriously in the workplace, employees feel valued and supported, leading to stronger loyalty and reduced staff turnover. Studies also illustrate that workplaces who value their employee’s wellbeing see higher levels of commitment and job satisfaction.
4: Meeting legal and ethical requirements: employers have a duty to safeguard the mental as well as physical wellbeing of their staff. Beyond compliance, prioritizing wellbeing reflects a commitment to doing what is right for employees and the business.
Where to begin? How to promote wellbeing in the workplace:
Workplace wellbeing is more than just an initiative, it’s a culture! It’s clear from the evidence that workplaces thrive when employee’s wellbeing is nurtured.
There are several effective means to foster wellbeing in the workplace, such as:
- Encourage open conversations:
-Normalise talking about mental health to reduce stigma.
-Train managers and supervisors to identify and respond to signs of stress.
– Create a safe space for employees to share concerns without judgement.
- Promote social connections:
-Organise team-building activities that are inclusive and accessible.
-Recognise and celebrate achievements of the team.
-Support peer networks and mentoring.
- Promote work life balance:
-Encourage employees to take their breaks and use their annual leave.
-Offer flexible or hybrid working options where possible.
– Discourage a culture of overworking by modelling healthy boundaries at leadership level.
- Support mental and physical health:
–Celebrate awareness days like World Mental Health days.
–Encourage movement and activity through the workday.
–Support preventative healthcare initiatives like flu vaccinations and health checks.
–Offer workshops on mindfulness, stress and resilience.
Key Message:
Promoting wellbeing is not a one-off initiative, it’s an ongoing commitment. By incorporating wellbeing into everyday practice, employers can create a happier, more productive and healthier workplace for all.
Resources for employers and employees:
There are several resources available to help support both employers and employees to promote wellbeing in the workplace:
Mind UK- Charity offering extensive range of publications and practical tips and advice for employers and employees.
Mental Health Foundation- charity specialising in research and policy development, with a focus on preventing mental health problems.
Hub of Hope- the UK’s largest mental health support directory.
British Red Cross- mental health and wellbeing advice and first aid.
Mates in mind- This website offers organisations a number of tools and resources to help them improve the mental health of their workforce, such as; awareness day resource packs, posters, infographics, factsheets and much more.
Jennifer O’Donoghue,
BSc (Hons) Nursing,
Occupational Health Advisor,
OH3 Ltd.
