Mental well-being at work: effective methods

Published on
July 10, 2024
Mental well-being at work: effective methods
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A recent study shows that work-related stress affects over half of employees. This highlights the urgent need to develop effective strategies to manage daily stress. The good news is that companies can create a supportive work environment using simple but impactful techniques.

Understanding well-being

What exactly does well-being mean, and what are its key components?

In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined well-being as a state of physical, mental, and social prosperity, not just the absence of illness.

Achieving this requires understanding well-being in all its dimensions: emotional, psychological, social, and professional.

This awareness helps individuals set clearer personal goals while building resilience against daily challenges. This first step is essential for improving personal well-being and contributing to a healthier workplace.

By prioritising well-being, companies can transform workplaces into more harmonious and stimulating environments.

Nutrition and well-being

A balanced diet directly supports both physical and mental well-being, helping employees stay focused and productive at work.

Eating nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can boost immunity, lower stress, and enhance cognitive performance.

Healthy eating habits contribute to overall well-being, which in turn positively influences job satisfaction and performance.

Choosing healthy foods

Adopting a balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, is key to professional well-being.

Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables support focus and help manage stress. Regular, varied meals strengthen immunity and provide consistent energy levels.

Favouring healthy choices—lean proteins, whole grains—also boosts cognitive performance and improves job satisfaction.

Hydration and its benefits

Staying well-hydrated is vital for maintaining overall health and work performance.

Proper hydration supports essential bodily functions, prevents fatigue and headaches, and helps regulate body temperature and digestion.

Drinking enough water throughout the day also improves concentration and reduces stress—both crucial for effective workdays.

The recommended amount is at least eight glasses per day, adjusted to individual needs and working conditions.

Building healthy hydration habits is a simple yet powerful way to promote both well-being and productivity.

Physical activity for well-being

Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for managing work stress. It stimulates the release of endorphins—natural mood enhancers—and helps build resilience against daily pressures.

Exercise enhances mental clarity and boosts productivity. Its positive effects span both physical and psychological well-being.

Recommended types of exercise

Incorporating a variety of exercises into daily routines can significantly enhance well-being:

  • Brisk walking improves circulation and reduces muscle tension.
  • Yoga combines flexibility with relaxation techniques.
  • Swimming provides full-body exercise with minimal joint strain.
  • Running enhances endurance and releases essential endorphins.
  • Strength training builds confidence while managing stress.
  • Cycling offers cardiovascular benefits along with outdoor enjoyment.

By mixing these options, everyone can find the right activity to support their well-being.

Making time for regular exercise, even during busy periods, is essential for reducing stress and enhancing overall quality of life.

Integrating exercise into daily routines

Integrating physical activity into daily life improves both physical and mental health. Every small effort counts.

Whether it’s a brisk walk during lunch or a yoga session after work, all movement matters.

It’s important to find enjoyable activities that fit into personal schedules. Some may prefer team sports for social bonding, while others choose solo workouts for reflection.

The key is staying consistent. The long-term benefits for well-being are significant and lasting.

Regular physical activity acts as a catalyst for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Stress management

Managing stress is critical to maintaining workplace well-being. Recognising early signs—such as fatigue, irritability, or sleep problems—helps address stress before it escalates.

Relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can greatly enhance stress management abilities.

Relaxation techniques

Practicing relaxation techniques can significantly improve well-being.

Yoga combines physical postures with mindfulness, reducing both physical tension and mental stress.

Mindfulness meditation encourages focusing on the present moment, limiting anxious thoughts.

Deep breathing exercises—slow inhaling through the nose, slow exhaling through the mouth—can quickly calm the mind and relax the body.

Incorporating these techniques into daily routines helps strengthen resilience and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Importance of meditation

Meditation offers multiple benefits for reducing stress and improving overall well-being:

  • Lower stress levels: Meditation reduces cortisol, the stress hormone.
  • Improved focus: It enhances attention and concentration, boosting work efficiency.
  • Emotional balance: Regular practice improves mood and reduces anxiety and depression.
  • Better sleep: Meditation promotes deeper, more restorative sleep.

Making meditation part of daily routines requires minimal time investment but delivers long-term rewards.

This accessible practice supports lasting personal and professional well-being.

Importance of sleep

Quality sleep is essential for optimal well-being, both physically and mentally.

Adequate sleep supports tissue repair, cell regeneration, and immune function. It also enhances stress management abilities and decision-making skills.

Studies consistently show that good sleep improves focus and productivity.

Establishing a sleep routine

A regular sleep schedule improves overall well-being and work performance.

Inconsistent hours disrupt natural sleep cycles, so setting fixed bedtimes and wake-up times helps establish stable, restorative sleep patterns.

Avoiding screens and bright lights at least one hour before bed encourages melatonin production, essential for quality sleep.

Relaxing bedtime rituals—like reading or breathing exercises—ease the transition to sleep.

Consistent sleep habits boost energy and well-being.

Improving sleep quality

Simple adjustments can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

Create an optimal sleep environment:

  • Dark, quiet room with comfortable temperature (around 18°C).
  • Quality mattress and pillows providing proper support.

Limiting caffeine and alcohol—especially in the evening—also improves sleep depth.

Evening relaxation practices, such as yoga or meditation, further support restful sleep.

Mental health matters

Mental health plays a critical role in overall well-being, especially at work.

Recognising and addressing stress symptoms early supports effective mental health management.

Open dialogue about mental health helps create a supportive, understanding work environment.

Workshops on stress management and group activities promote a positive atmosphere and a sense of community.

Self-care for mental health

Taking care of mental health is essential for maintaining emotional and psychological balance.

Daily meditation reduces stress, sharpens focus, and enhances overall well-being. Even short sessions provide meaningful benefits.

Creative activities—reading, writing, or artistic hobbies—further support mental health by offering fulfilling outlets for self-expression.

Regularly investing time in these practices helps build lasting mental resilience.

Seeking professional help

When work stress becomes overwhelming, seeking professional support is a proactive step.

Mental health professionals—such as psychologists or therapists—offer targeted strategies for managing stress.

They help identify specific stress triggers and develop personalised coping techniques.

Therapy sessions provide a safe, confidential space to explore concerns without fear of judgment.

This external support enhances self-understanding and fosters long-term resilience.

Recognising the value of professional help is an investment in long-term well-being.

Social relationships and well-being

Social connections play a vital role in workplace well-being.

Building positive relationships with colleagues, participating in team activities, and offering mutual support reduce stress and strengthen teamwork.

Positive social interactions foster belonging and self-esteem, making the workplace more enjoyable and productive.

Regular peer exchanges also encourage knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving.

A workplace culture based on trust and mutual support significantly enhances collective well-being.

Building positive relationships

Creating strong, positive workplace relationships helps reduce stress and promote collective well-being.

  • Active listening: Understand colleagues’ perspectives.
  • Express gratitude: Regularly thank colleagues for their efforts.
  • Offer support: Be ready to assist colleagues when needed.
  • Social moments: Join informal team gatherings to strengthen bonds.
  • Respect diversity: Embrace different views and personalities.
  • Clear communication: Ensure openness to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Encourage initiatives: Support innovative ideas from colleagues.

A respectful, supportive work environment boosts team spirit and motivation.

Maintaining social balance

Maintaining a balanced social life supports overall well-being.

Strong professional networks help manage stress, while non-work relationships provide essential emotional balance.

Social events and community engagement also develop transferable skills for the workplace.

Balancing work and personal relationships enhances life quality and fosters long-term well-being.

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