{"id":106123,"date":"2022-11-10T21:50:11","date_gmt":"2022-11-11T04:50:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/?p=106123"},"modified":"2026-03-16T21:35:53","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T03:35:53","slug":"improve-mental-health-workplace","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Improve Mental Health in the Workplace"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#How_can_organizations_support_employee_mental_health\" >How can organizations support employee mental health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#What_are_effective_ways_to_improve_mental_health_in_the_workplace\" >What are effective ways to improve mental health in the workplace?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#Why_should_leaders_be_trained_to_recognize_mental_health_warning_signs\" >Why should leaders be trained to recognize mental health warning signs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#How_does_mindfulness_support_workplace_mental_health\" >How does mindfulness support workplace mental health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#How_do_meditation_breaks_improve_employee_mental_well-being\" >How do meditation breaks improve employee mental well-being?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#How_does_physical_activity_support_mental_health_at_work\" >How does physical activity support mental health at work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#How_do_realistic_goals_reduce_stress_and_burnout\" >How do realistic goals reduce stress and burnout?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#How_does_laughter_improve_workplace_mental_health\" >How does laughter improve workplace mental health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#How_do_educational_sessions_like_Lunch_and_Learns_support_employee_mental_wellness\" >How do educational sessions, like Lunch and Learns, support employee mental wellness?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#What_steps_should_organizations_take_to_improve_workplace_mental_health\" >What steps should organizations take to improve workplace mental health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/11\/10\/improve-mental-health-workplace\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote executive-summary is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-width:1px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);font-size:17px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:20px\"><strong>Executive Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group executive-summary\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:18px\"><strong>How can employers improve mental health in the workplace?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"executive-summary\" style=\"font-size:16px\">Employers can improve workplace mental health by creating a supportive culture, encouraging open communication, and providing access to mental health resources. Consistent education, stress management practices, and leadership support help reduce burnout and stigma. When mental health is prioritized, employees are more engaged, resilient, and productive.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-can-organizations-support-employee-mental-health\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_organizations_support_employee_mental_health\"><\/span>How can organizations support employee mental health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It may seem difficult to know how to improve mental health in the workplace because things are hardly ever easily measurable like with physical health. However, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6502417\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mental health has a far greater effect<\/a> upon the well-being of individuals than originally thought.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"How to Improve Mental Health in the Workplace\" class=\"wp-image-106133\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, when employees with common mental health issues such as depression are given programs and assistance for improvement, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shrm.org\/resourcesandtools\/hr-topics\/benefits\/pages\/employers-enhance-emotional-wellbeing-benefits-for-2020.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">nearly 86%<\/a> of those employees agree their ability to perform better at work has improved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Assisting your employees with being able to improve their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2025\/06\/03\/mental-wellness-activities\/\">mental health <\/a>is not only going to have almost immeasurable benefits to their personal lives, but it will also have a cascading effect in the workplace.<\/strong> You will see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>improved moral and work culture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>increased motivation and engagement in work<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>decreased absenteeism and presenteeism<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>better productivity and efficiency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>communication abilities improved<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>less conflict and greater solution orientation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-effective-ways-to-improve-mental-health-in-the-workplace\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_effective_ways_to_improve_mental_health_in_the_workplace\"><\/span>What are effective ways to improve mental health in the workplace?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s important to remember that the topic of mental health or mental illness can still seem taboo or frowned upon. Fortunately that dynamic has been changing over the recent years, especially with the world-wide pandemic of 2020. <strong>With over <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230921233553\/https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/over-80-of-us-workers-seek-employers-who-care-about-their-mental-health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">80% of workers<\/a> looking for employers that provide mental health benefits, it cannot be left out of the health and wellness program of your organization.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These are some of our favorite ways of how to improve mental health in the workplace to get your started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>train all leaders on the signs of mental health crisis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>teach mindfulness and the benefits of morning routines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>provide meditation classes and breaks to support it<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>allow employees to exercise or go on walks during the workday<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>set realistic targets alongside your employees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>plan activities that incorporate laughter <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>have lunch-and-learns on healing techniques and destressing practices<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of these may require policies to be put into place. But most are very culture oriented and are greatly impacted by the views and support of your leadership and managers. Take the steps to incorporate what you feel is appropriate and ensure you have people in your organization on board, then you&#8217;ll soon see the benefits. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/08\/25\/reducing-stress-levels-in-the-workplace\/\">11 Unique Ways for Reducing Stress Levels in the Workplace<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-should-leaders-be-trained-to-recognize-mental-health-warning-signs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_should_leaders_be_trained_to_recognize_mental_health_warning_signs\"><\/span>Why should leaders be trained to recognize mental health warning signs?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You may need to bring in an expert in this field from your local health department or insurance company to ensure this kind of training is thoroughly effective. <strong>There may be small and simple things that when discussed can make a life or death difference in the life of one of your employees.<\/strong> Keep in mind as well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Always have access to suicide hotlines if they ever need to be called.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Know what options and resources are available through your insurance. Some things may already come with the plans you have in place. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have counselors on staff in your HR department that can spend time talking with employees needing extra support. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide the environment that helps employees feel safe and welcome to discuss struggles they may be going through without feeling judged or biased against. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"How to Improve Mental Health in the Workplace \" class=\"wp-image-106134\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-1.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, mental breakdowns and suicide happen too often when they can be prevented, even in the work place. Never feel like your people are being too cautious when they could be saving a life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/08\/08\/support-wellness-program-participation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">How Leadership Can Support Wellness Program Participation<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-does-mindfulness-support-workplace-mental-health\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_mindfulness_support_workplace_mental_health\"><\/span>How does mindfulness support workplace mental health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The more aware we are about ourselves, what&#8217;s going on inside, and our surroundings, the calmer and resilient we become. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/the-benefits-of-mindfulness-5205137\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Mindfulness has more benefits<\/a> than what most people realize, especially in the workplace. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>depression and anxiety symptoms lower<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>overall stress and tension decreases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ability to keep calm amidst strong emotions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sharper memory and less brain fogginess<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>better communication and co-working relationships<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Mindfulness goes hand in hand with healthy morning routines. <strong>When your employees take the time to ease into their day and improve their mental state before coming into work, everyone benefits.<\/strong> If you can, keep the schedules not so early that your team members are able to spend the time before work for themselves as much as possible. It&#8217;s been shown that morning routines <a href=\"https:\/\/myva360.com\/blog\/10-science-backed-benefits-of-a-morning-routine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">support a better overall state of being, <\/a>especially at work .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/02\/11\/mindfulness-in-the-workplace\/\">10 Tips to Implement Mindfulness in the Workplace<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-meditation-breaks-improve-employee-mental-well-being\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_meditation_breaks_improve_employee_mental_well-being\"><\/span>How do meditation breaks improve employee mental well-being?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking mindfulness up a notch is meditation. <strong>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.headspace.com\/articles\/the-science-behind-meditation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">science is undeniable<\/a> how much meditation makes a difference in everyone&#8217;s mental health and wellbeing. <\/strong>The ability to positively influence our healthy gene expression and down regulate negative responses that contribute to a healthy livelihood is paramount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bring in a meditation teacher to teach basics or more advanced levels of meditation depending on your employees&#8217; practice. If possible, provide access to meditation apps like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.headspace.com\/headspace-meditation-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Headspace<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20250101200358\/https:\/\/www.calm.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Calm<\/a> employees can use right on their phones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-2-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"How to Improve Mental Health in the Workplace (2)\" class=\"wp-image-106135\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-2-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-2.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If possible, create a quiet space where employees are welcome to spend 10-15 minutes and have their own meditation practice during breaks. Or at least allow them the undisturbed time if they desire and you&#8217;ll soon see great improvement in their mental wellbeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-does-physical-activity-support-mental-health-at-work\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_physical_activity_support_mental_health_at_work\"><\/span>How does physical activity support mental health at work?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll be amazed at how much energy, clear thinking, and better moods your employees have after they come back from exercising. Ideally, having an on-site gym will encourage your employees to use it more and save travel time. If not, try:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>getting discounts from nearby gyms or recreation centers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>provide walking path ideas that start and finish on the worksite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>organizing lawn games that can be played right outside <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>schedule walking meetings if all are able to join in that way<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Not only will the increased activity provide physical health benefits, it&#8217;s one of the greatest things to do for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC1470658\/#:~:text=Exercise%20improves%20mental%20health%20by,self%2Desteem%20and%20cognitive%20function.&amp;text=Exercise%20has%20also%20been%20found,self%2Desteem%20and%20social%20withdrawal.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">mental health benefits <\/a>as well. <\/strong>Even just adding opportunities for increased movement at workstations, or traveling from place to place on the worksite makes a difference. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/09\/27\/fitness-in-the-workplace\/\">Easy Ideas for Increased Fitness in the Workplace<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-realistic-goals-reduce-stress-and-burnout\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_realistic_goals_reduce_stress_and_burnout\"><\/span>How do realistic goals reduce stress and burnout?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The stress and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.averycounselling.com\/single-post\/managing-unrealistic-expectations-stress-response-part-5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">negative impact of unrealistic expectations<\/a> put on employees is a main detriment to their mental health and working abilities. Demanding extreme results or putting rough working conditions on your employees takes a toll over time. <strong>If your people aren&#8217;t allowed to give input with deadlines or what they can realistically contribute to a project, all you&#8217;re doing is creating a negative situation. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-3-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-106136\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-3-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/How-to-Improve-Mental-Health-in-the-Workplace-3.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, sometimes deadlines and working conditions of a project cannot be entirely changed to meet the exact needs of your employees. But when they see that they can provide input, you consult them on what timelines will work best, and they aren&#8217;t bullied into doing things in ways they can&#8217;t do well, your employees&#8217; morale and dedication to their work will skyrocket. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/04\/08\/wellness-programs-improve-employee-morale\/\">How Wellness Programs Help Improve Employee Morale<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-does-laughter-improve-workplace-mental-health\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_laughter_improve_workplace_mental_health\"><\/span>How does laughter improve workplace mental health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Laughter <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20260308021926\/https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/stress-management\/in-depth\/stress-relief\/art-20044456\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">physically stops negative emotions. <\/a>Most working situations create negative emotions. So when  you provide moments with your employees that get them laughing, lots of negativity and stress will dissipate. If you already have a really light-hearted group of employees that are regularly laughing together, that&#8217;s amazing! If not, try some of these ideas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>have friendly games or competitions between your departments or teams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>put jokes on bulletin boards or inside of email newsletters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>have comedy nights or improv shows to enjoy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>create an atmosphere that supports practical jokes everyone finds humor with<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>keep card games in the break room that are centered around laughter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-educational-sessions-like-lunch-and-learns-support-employee-mental-wellness\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_educational_sessions_like_Lunch_and_Learns_support_employee_mental_wellness\"><\/span>How do educational sessions, like Lunch and Learns, support employee mental wellness?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most frustration, anger, and miscommunication is triggered by things that are completely not work related. <strong>When individuals are able to work through their own struggles with a qualified therapist or by implementing an effective technique, many conflicts and ill feelings could be avoided. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/11-Unique-Ways-for-Reducing-Stress-Levels-in-the-Workplace-3-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-106032\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/11-Unique-Ways-for-Reducing-Stress-Levels-in-the-Workplace-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/11-Unique-Ways-for-Reducing-Stress-Levels-in-the-Workplace-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/11-Unique-Ways-for-Reducing-Stress-Levels-in-the-Workplace-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/11-Unique-Ways-for-Reducing-Stress-Levels-in-the-Workplace-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/11-Unique-Ways-for-Reducing-Stress-Levels-in-the-Workplace-3-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/11-Unique-Ways-for-Reducing-Stress-Levels-in-the-Workplace-3.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Employees that struggle with anxiety, irritability, or excessive frustration can learn simple techniques such as <a href=\"https:\/\/cogbtherapy.com\/mindfulness-meditation-blog\/mindfulness-stop-skill\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">the STOP method<\/a> and diffuse their own emotions before an undesirable situation occurs. Keeping the training with a professional during a lunch-and-learn type setting may help employees feel more comfortable about asking questions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-steps-should-organizations-take-to-improve-workplace-mental-health\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_steps_should_organizations_take_to_improve_workplace_mental_health\"><\/span>What steps should organizations take to improve workplace mental health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Helping to improve and maintain mental health can seem intimidating and ethereal because it&#8217;s not as understood or visible. Don&#8217;t let this scare your organization away from incorporating vital mental health aspects into your wellness program. <strong>In many ways, mental health needs to be focused upon more than other factors contributing to overall wellness.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where WellSteps can assist you. Let us help you put together mental health support in your company&#8217;s wellness program. Schedule a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/demosignup\">free demo<\/a> with our team and discover how easy it can be to make a huge impact for your employees&#8217; mental health in the workplace. Talk soon!<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/demosignup\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"566\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA4-1024x566.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-104678\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA4-1024x566.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA4-300x166.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA4-768x424.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA4.png 1189w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773378928504\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the first steps companies should take to improve mental health in the workplace?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The first steps in how to improve mental health in the workplace include reducing stigma, encouraging open conversation, and offering stress-management resources. Employees need psychological safety before they can adopt wellness tools.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773378931360\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"> How can wellness programs improve mental health in the workplace long term?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Wellness programs help improve mental health in the workplace by offering mindfulness exercises, stress challenges, habit tracking, and opportunities for social connection. Long-term consistency is key to reducing burnout.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773378931967\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What role does leadership play in efforts to improve mental health in the workplace?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Leadership plays a critical role in how to improve mental health in the workplace\u2014leaders who model vulnerability, allow mental health days, and support boundaries help normalize wellness. Their influence shapes culture.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773378932651\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can incentives help improve mental health in the workplace?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Incentives can support improving mental health in the workplace by rewarding consistent stress management practices. Recognizing small steps reinforces positive routines and reduces stress over time.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Follow these seven ways how to improve mental health in the workplace and see fantastic improvement in the wellbeing of your employees. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":108093,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"neve_meta_sidebar":"","neve_meta_container":"","neve_meta_enable_content_width":"","neve_meta_content_width":0,"neve_meta_title_alignment":"","neve_meta_author_avatar":"","neve_post_elements_order":"","neve_meta_disable_header":"","neve_meta_disable_footer":"","neve_meta_disable_title":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4,254,2043,19],"tags":[61,2643,2644,22],"class_list":["post-106123","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-behavior-change","category-corporate-wellness-ideas","category-employee-wellbeing","category-workplace-wellness","tag-best-worksite-wellness-programs","tag-employee-mental-health","tag-mental-health","tag-wellness-programs"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.1 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - 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