A recent report out by the Stress Management Society, describes a stress epidemic among the nation’s workforce, with over a third of people saying their workplace stress has been ongoing for the past five years.
In another poll by the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, identifies two-thirds of workers have ‘poor’ or ‘below average’ mental well-being in the workplace.
Employees are urging their employers to take a flexible, fresh and dynamic approach to help them tackle stress, with almost half of workers wanting a yoga and meditation room and exercise facilities to help relieve stress; heating and ventilation, quiet working areas and breakout spaces are also high on the list.
In this insight, we look in further detail, at ways and methods to improve your own mental well-being.
Stress, loneliness, inactivity and lack of sleep are just a few reasons why you may be suffering. No matter the reason, it can be helpful to remember that you deserve to feel good and there are steps you can take, both in the workplace and outside, to improve and maintain your mental health.
Keep A Mood Diary
Tracking your moods can help you to work out what positively and negatively affects your mental wellbeing. You can take steps to avoid, change or prepare for negative situations. Check out these FREE mood diaries online such as moodpanda.com, moodscope.com, medhelp.org/land/mood-tracker and mappiness.org.uk.
Tell People What Helps
If certain treatments have helped in the past, tell your doctor. Let your friends and family know how they can support you, whether it’s listening to you when you’ve had a bad day at work, helping you to keep on top of commitments, or being aware of triggers.
Set Yourself Challenges
Find something you like doing and do more of it. You could take up a hobby, join a class or volunteer your time for something you feel passionate about. It can be hard to find motivation to set goals for yourself, especially when you don’t feel confident or worry about what other people may think. Making small goals such as trying a recipe or learning a new language can help you feel more positive about yourself. Learning new challenges can help boost your confidence and give you a sense of achievement.
Want more ideas?
Read our Mental Health Awareness at Work, which looks at the signs, symptoms and six simple ways to deal with work-related stress.
