When people are stressed out at work it can lead to a decrease in productivity. No employer or employee, wants that to happen. Some companies are taking a proactive approach by creating wellness programs in the workplace. These programs in place may have some initial cost and time but reports are showing that they are leading to an increase in productivity which will benefit the bottom line. In the end, the return on investment is well worth it. Not only will it help with the company be more successful, you will have healthier and happier employees and a lower turnover rate.
The responsibility of mental health and productivity does not only rest on the shoulders of the employers, it is important for the employees step up and find ways on their own to be sure they are caring for their own mental health. Caring for your mental health is critical for all aspects of your life.
Here we will give you some advice on strategies you can use to help decrease your stress and increase your productivity and improve your overall mental health.
Lunch Time
Whether you are working from home, in an office or a clinic it is important you take time on your lunch break to enjoy your meal. Make it a priority and set boundaries for yourself. Leave your regular workspace to eat your meal so you have a chance to disconnect. Go to the common area and visit with your co-workers. If that is not possible, enjoy the outdoors. Studies show that nature and fresh air can decrease stress and increase the quality of your overall health. Even if you can only be outside for 10-15 minutes, any amount of time will help.
Move Around
If you are at a job where you sit at a desk all day, take time to intentionally get up and move your body. This can help when you are feeling tired and assist to generate ideas and strategies while working. If you work at a dental clinic, you do spend time moving around but again, be intentional about your movement when you do get a break. Increase your heart rate, it can help with sleepiness and can wake up your mind so that there is no worry of becoming complacent with your patients.
Meditate
Meditation is a tool that has been used for decades, and for good reason. Studies show that the practice of meditation can decrease anxiety and stress while increasing the quality of your mental and physical health. Now there are many apps that can help to guide you through meditation if you are new to it. If you are not comfortable with meditation, even just finding a quiet place to practice deep breaths that give your mind a chance to rest can help. If you do not have time to meditate at work, this is something you can practice anytime, anywhere.
Hopefully, whether you are an employee or an employer, some of these tips can help to implement ways at the workplace to decrease stress and anxiety and increase the overall health, productivity and well-being of everyone at the workplace.
RESOURCES
https://hbr.org/2017/06/why-you-should-tell-your-team-to-take-a-break-and-go-outside
https://justworks.com/blog/improve-mental-health-work-midday-break-ideas