How to create a workplace of wellness

Here are some ideas on how managers can create a workplace of wellness

04 August 2023 4 minute read

Dark haired younger man sitting cross legged on a yoga mat in his office space

Healthy, happy, and supportive working environments lead to better commercial outcomes. But how can managers create a workplace of wellness that leads to better physical and mental outcomes for their people?

Wellness at work used to equate to a weekly fruit basket, free yoga, and a bottle of hand sanitiser outside the lifts.

Thankfully, our expectations of the tools we need to provide hard working teams with to ensure their wellbeing have changed.

Creating a workplace of wellness is an ongoing commitment to placing the health and happiness of your team as equal to their productivity. The good news is that one leads to the other and studies show that those who feel supported by their manager are more loyal and productive in their jobs.

Why workplace wellness is a leadership issue

Managers set the culture and tone of a working environment. This opportunity also comes with a significant amount of responsibility.

One 2023 global survey revealed:

Managers have a greater impact on employees’ mental health than doctors and therapists, and the same impact as a partner
More than 80% of employees would rather have good mental health than a high-paying job
Two-thirds of employees would take a pay cut for a job that better supports their mental wellness.

How can we create a workplace of wellness?

Companies that offer things like subsidised or free gym membership, healthy food options, accessible outdoor space, and policies that recognise mental health days and other aspects of wellness as part of overall governance, are on the right track.

However, there are aspects of wellness that will need attention if managers want to successfully implement a healthy, balanced working culture.

Transparent communication – Managing a team’s wellness involves being an active part of that team. Many managers now choose to sit among their people, saving closed offices only for meetings. Having regular and varied ways of communicating company updates or changes can help people feel safe, informed, and included. Providing space in the week for group or one-on-one discussions is key.

Clear boundaries – In a 24/7 comms environment it’s essential to set clear parameters about what is and isn’t expected and acceptable. While individuals may choose to send emails after hours to clear their To Do lists, this can create a false sense of urgency and stress for others. Establish clear boundaries around after-hours emails and encourage people who like to work late to schedule late emails instead of sending them to alleviate stress for others.

Flexible environment – In a post-COVID working world managers are having to juggle people working from different sites, across myriad platforms. This hybrid environment is unlikely to disappear so it’s important to be flexible and fluid. Giving teams a level of autonomy will help lift confidence, improve trust, and increase productivity.

How to support mental health in the workplace

Team bonding time, a balanced culture, and some flexibility are all key to maintaining a feeling of everyday wellness. However, it’s important to have some strategies when a team member is struggling with more immediate or serious issues.

If you notice a team member is withdrawn, irritable, or disengaged, don’t assume they’re just having a bad day and ignore the issue
Take the time to have a private conversation and ask them if everything is ok
If they do express some distress ask if there is anything you can do to help, or anything you can take off their plate at work
Connect them with the HR manager who can provide details of the employee assistance program and ensure they are being properly supported
If a person expresses ideas of self-harm or suicidal ideation, take them seriously and stay calm. If they are in immediate danger call 000 and stay with them until assistance arrives.