Wellness Starts at Work: Building an Office Space that Nurtures Mental Health
4 May 2023
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For companies wanting to create a positive working environment that promotes mental health, the design of the office space plays a crucial role. By prioritising employee wellness, businesses can reduce sickness rates, enhance overall mental health and boost productivity.
The Workplace Health Report has shed light on UK employee’s views on stress in the workplace. The four main findings are:
- 76% of UK employees feel moderate-to-high levels of stress
- 33% of employees state that stress has had a negative impact on their workplace productivity
- 73% of employees identify workload as the main cause of work-related stress
- It is interesting to note that 54% agree that a moderate level of stress enhances their productivity.
The following tips can ensure that your office space promotes mental wellbeing.
Ensuring good natural light
Natural light is known to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and encourage healthy sleep patterns. Light coloured furniture and walls can enhance the brightness of a workspace and by positioning workstations by windows, employees can benefit from sunlight during the work day. Removing heavy curtains and room dividers can allow natural light flow through, creating a well-lit environment.
Consider private working areas
Open-plan offices are ideal for collaborations, but they can also be stressful and anxiety-inducing for some employees. Creating private areas within the office can provide space for focused work or relaxation. By adding comfortable furnishings, plants and natural light, these spaces can create a calm retreat for employees that need privacy or a calmer environment.
Choose flexible furnishings
Providing flexible furnishings encourages employees to take control of their working environment and promote mental wellness. Standing desks are ideal to reduce poor posture which leads to back pain. Ergonomic chairs have also been known to significantly reduce physical stress and improve comfort. Noise-cancelling headphones and adjustable lighting can improve the overall wellbeing of staff and ensure a productive working environment.
Create a positive work culture
An inclusive and positive work culture is essential in promoting employee mental wellness in the office. Companies can create a culture that supports mental wellbeing by incorporating wellness programs and prioritising employee feedback in the workplace. Mental health workshops, mindfulness exercises and meditation sessions can help employees with building resilience, managing stress, and improving their overall mental health. Providing resources and encouraging open discussions about mental health can add to a supportive culture which prioritises the wellbeing of employees.
Endorse Physical Activity
Physical activity has long been known to directly impact mental wellbeing and companies can promote it within the workplace to enhance the mental health of employees. Access to fitness facilities, organising group fitness sessions and promoting walking/cycling to work can all contribute to a healthy workplace. Regular physical activity can help employees to lower stress, increase energy levels and improve mood, all leading to better mental wellbeing.
Provide mental health resources
Ensuring that employees have access to mental health services is a proactive step to promoting mental wellbeing in the workplace. Businesses can offer access to counselling services and employee assistance programs to support their staff. Training managers and senior staff to respond to mental health issues is also a great benefit. By offering resources, companies can create an inclusive environment where employees feel safe and able to seek help for their mental health.
In conclusion, it is crucial that the office space you rent promotes mental wellbeing for the benefit of your employees and the overall success of the company. By considering private working areas, ensuring natural light, choosing flexible furnishings, creating a positive work culture, and providing mental health resources alongside endorsing physical activity, businesses can create a work environment that supports employee wellbeing and productivity.
Written and submitted by Elizabeth Wilson
