In honour of World Mental Health Day, this month’s blog discusses some of the ways you can look after your mental health whilst at work.

For many of us, work is where we spend a significant amount of our time, which is why looking after your mental wellbeing at work is incredibly important. If your wellbeing is looked after it benefits everyone in the workplace, as not only are you likely to be more productive, but you’ll be more personally content.

Talk about Your Workload

If the quantity of your workload or a tight deadline is causing you unwanted additional stress, it is important to talk to your manager/supervisor as soon as possible. Don’t handle these issues on your own, as they can build up and have the potential to turn into an even bigger problem. Admitting that your workload is a little overwhelming is not a sign of weakness, but a part of taking charge of your own wellbeing. By having your concerns listened to, you will begin to feel supported and less isolated and anxious. 

Exercise at Lunch

If you’re feeling fatigued and have low energy at work, then why not make the most of your lunch break and reenergise by going for a walk outside. No matter how short your walk is, it will benefit you greatly to get into the outdoors, breathe in some fresh air and stretch your muscles. While on the move, you could even listen to some motivational podcasts, or chat to a loved one on the phone. Short bursts of exercise like this can help you concentrate better, improve sleep and keep your brain healthy.

Improve Your Eating Habits 

You can also improve your mental wellbeing by improving what you put inside your body, as there is a strong connection between what we eat and how we feel. Your body needs a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function well and a diet that’s good for your physical health will also be good for your mental health.

Set Boundaries for Your Working Hours

Did you know that working long hours can affect both your performance and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke? This is why it is important to set limits on your working hours and avoid checking your emails outside work.

If you do happen to work overtime or need to meet a deadline, make sure you give yourself regular breaks and make a point of removing yourself from your desk. Set yourself personal time in the evening to relax and recharge, which will allow you to return to work feeling refreshed.

Ask For Help

Your employer has a duty of care towards you, so if you ever feel overwhelmed, you should tell your manager how you feel and see if, together, you can make the necessary adjustments to your working conditions. With organisations operating better when their employees are physically and mentally healthy, employers will be happy to help. The benefit of asking your superior for help is that they can let you know what work they’d like you to prioritise and offer advice on how you should approach a busy time, thus providing the guidance and reassurance you need during what can be a stressful time.

The above tips are designed to help calm your mind, allowing you to feel more productive and offering the opportunity to recharge your batteries, which will ultimately improve your performance at work.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to a member of our team about a project, contact us by calling: 028 9044 8755 or email: [email protected].