In 2023, health and wellbeing at work have become more important than ever before. To ensure our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, it is vital that we make it a priority, regardless of whether we work from home or in an office.
What Is Wellbeing At Work and Our Common Problems
Wellbeing at work refers to our physical, mental, and emotional health in the workplace.
Common wellbeing problems that we may face at work include:
- Stress. Work-related stress is a common problem that can have a significant impact on our mental and physical health. Common causes of work-related stress include heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and lack of support or resources. To manage work-related stress, it's important to prioritise self care, set boundaries, and seek support from managers or colleagues when necessary.
- Burnout. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or chronic stress. It can lead to feelings of cynicism, detachment, and reduced effectiveness at work. To prevent burnout, it's important to prioritise self care, take regular breaks, and seek support from managers or colleagues when necessary.
- Sedentary behaviour. Sedentary behaviour, such as sitting for long periods, can have negative impacts on our physical health. To combat sedentary behaviour, practice regular physical activities.
- Poor diet. Poor diet can have negative impacts on our physical and mental health. To promote healthy eating habits, eat healthy food options in the workplace and opt for nutritious meals.
- Dehydration. Dehydration can be a major issue when we spend long hours at work. It can lead to headaches, fatigue, and decreased concentration. To combat dehydration, it's important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keeping a water bottle at your desk or work station can serve as a helpful reminder to stay hydrated. Additionally, reducing caffeine intake can also help prevent dehydration.
How To Achieve Wellbeing At Work
Here are a few steps we can take to create a happier work environment:
- Encourage regular physical activity. Physical activity has numerous benefits, including reducing stress levels, improving mood, and boosting energy levels. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, whether it's by taking a walk during lunch breaks or doing simple stretches at your desk. You could also attend group activities like yoga classes or team sports during your lunch time or after work, to make physical activity a fun.
- Eat healthy food in the workplace. What we eat can significantly impact our overall health and wellbeing. Eating healthy food, opting for healthy snacks, like fruits, nuts, and seeds, and drinking plenty of water will improve your physical health.
- Practice good posture while sitting or standing. Poor posture can lead to various physical problems, including back pain, neck pain, and eye strain. To prevent these issues, pay attention to your posture when you sit at your desk or do standing work. Use adjustable chairs and desks, have regular breaks to stretch and move around, and do regular eye check-ups if you work on computers for extended periods.
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Seek counselling services or employee assistance programs. If we are struggling with mental health issues, we can reach out to these resources to receive support and guidance.
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Manage stress. We can utilise resources and support provided by the company to manage our stress levels, such as mindfulness training, yoga classes, or meditation programs. We can also set boundaries for our work and personal life, taking regular breaks to recharge and disconnect.
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Promote work-life balance and flexible work arrangements. We can discuss flexible work arrangements that allow us to balance our personal and professional lives. We can also prioritise our own self care, taking time for hobbies, exercise, or time with loved ones.
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Aromatherapy. Placing our natural Aromatherapy Reed Diffuser on your desk can also be an effective way to calm your senses, improve your focus, and boost your mood. The pleasant aroma of pure essential oils can have a positive impact on your overall wellbeing, reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of relaxation. With a variety of scents to choose from, you can find one that suits your personal preference and provides the benefits you need most.
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We can contribute to creating a positive work environment by being kind, respectful, and supportive of our colleagues. We can also recognise and celebrate the achievements of our colleagues.
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Promote open communication and transparency. We can communicate openly and honestly with our colleagues and managers, fostering a culture of transparency and trust.
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Encourage team-building activities and social events. We can participate in team-building activities and social events that help to build relationships and foster a sense of community.
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