Today is World Mental Health Day – an international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.
1 in 6.8 people experience mental health problems in the workplace, according to the Mental Health Foundation, with further evidence suggesting that 12.7% of all sickness days in the UK can be attributed to mental health conditions.
What’s more, it’s believed that improving mental health in the workplace could save businesses across the world up to £8 billion per year and help to create a happier and healthier working environment.
So here are a few of our tips to help you look after your mental well-being at work:
- Take regular breaks– A change of scene or pace can be good for your mental health. This could be as simple as a five-minute pause from what you’re doing, planning in brainstorms, break-outs and creative time and enforcing lunch breaks away from your desk.
- Eat well– What we eat and drink affects how we feel. A diet that is good for your physical health is also good for your mental health. Try and plan for mealtimes at work or choose healthy options when buying lunch. And don’t forget to snack regularly throughout the day to keep your energy levels high!
- Talk about your feelings and ask for help– None of us are superhuman. Talking about your feelings and asking for help at work is not a weakness and helps you maintain your mental health.
- Keep active- Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem, help you concentrate and improve sleep quality. Try to make a physical activity that you enjoy part of your day, whether it’s a walk to work or going to a class. But, if you’re strapped for time, why not organise lunchtime yoga sessions or deskercise?
- Care for others- Caring for others is an important part of maintaining relationships and creating a positive working atmosphere. It can help us feel needed and valued and boost our self-esteem.
Have you got any other tips for maintaining good mental health? Get in touch and let us know. We’d love to hear from you!