When we take into consideration the amount of time we spend at work and the constant pressures we face each day, it’s no surprise that many of us, at some point in our careers, have taken time off work due to stress, anxiety or depression.
But with forward-thinking employers who recognise the importance of wellbeing at work, many companies are now putting wellbeing practices into place. Wellness programs that include yoga, meditation, free counselling sessions, training courses on mental wellbeing, fitness challenges, or gym memberships can help maintain a healthier workforce, which ultimately results in fewer sick days, higher retention, increased productivity and a happier work environment.
Middleton Murray, a UK based apprenticeship training provider, takes an holistic approach to wellbeing in the workplace and since introducing meditation techniques using the popular Headspace app, they have managed to retain all of their 120 staff since the initiative began.
Innocent Smoothies is a well known brand that puts wellbeing at the forefront of its success. The company provides many perks that contribute daily to the wellbeing of its staff. Free gym membership, flexible working hours, yoga club, free breakfasts, and training courses for understanding mental wellbeing are just a few of the initiatives that the brand has implemented.
There are lots of wellbeing initiatives that can be cost effective, providing benefits for both the company and employee. Good employee wellbeing increases productivity and motivation; boosts team spirit; and reduces stress, anxiety and depression.
Onsite yoga
By operating a yoga class at lunchtime, it not only encourages staff to take a break, it can also improve levels of concentration, ease muscle pain, and increase energy levels.Nutritious snacks
Employers can try avoiding the mid-afternoon slump by ditching the vending machine and providing staff with a choice of healthy snacks such as fresh fruit and vegetables.Flexible hours
We all have different commitments and responsibilities in our lives, therefore not everyone works to their optimum at the same times of day. Flexible working hours allow staff to work the hours that best suit their personal lives which, in turn, can reduce stress and enable them to focus better on the job at hand.Walk or cycle to work initiative
As well as playing a part in reducing our carbon footprint by operating a walk or cycle to work initiative, we can help improve both mental and physical wellbeing of the workforce. Under the government’s Cycle to Work Scheme, employers can loan out bicycles to their staff as a tax-free benefit.Training workshops on mental wellbeing
Mental health issues are often misunderstood in the workplace and as a result, people are reluctant to seek help. In addition, managers and colleagues may not recognise the issues that an employee is facing. Training workshops can include topics such as mindfulness, stress, assertiveness, managing difficult people, managing conflict at work, effective listening, motivational interviewing, etc. They can help provide relevant and helpful information to everyone or specific groups of people as well as guidance on techniques that people can use at home to alleviate symptoms.
Counselling or CBT sessions for employees
More and more companies are offering counselling and cognitive-behaviour therapy (CBT) sessions to their employees. These are evidence-based approaches that can help employees improve mental wellbeing and also support recovery from stress, anxiety, low mood and psychological difficulties.
If you'd like to find out how First Psychology Assistance can help your organisation better understand and improve the mental health of employees, visit our website www.firstpsychology-assistance.co.uk https://www.firstpsychology-assistance.co.uk/services.php
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