Why Mental Wellbeing at Work Matters
We spend a big part of our lives at work so it’s no surprise that the way we feel mentally and emotionally during our working hours has a major impact on our overall wellbeing. A positive, supportive work environment can boost morale, reduce stress, and help people thrive — not just at work, but in life.
On the other hand, high levels of stress, poor communication, and unrealistic expectations can take a serious toll on mental health. Over time this can lead to burnout, absenteeism, or disengagement, which affects not only individuals but the whole workplace.
Prioritising mental wellbeing isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s also good for business.
Common Workplace Stressors
There are many reasons people may feel overwhelmed or anxious at work. Some of the most common include:
Unrealistic workloads or long hours
Lack of recognition or feedback
Poor communication between teams or managers
Unclear job expectations or constant changes
Limited opportunities for growth or development
Workplace conflict or bullying
These issues can chip away at confidence, motivation, and energy. They may lead to mental fatigue, sleep problems, anxiety, or even depression.
Signs Someone Might Be Struggling
It’s not always easy to tell when a colleague is having a hard time but there are some signs that might suggest someone needs support:
Withdrawing from others or becoming unusually quiet
Drop in work quality or motivation
Increased irritability or emotional reactions
Changes in appearance, routine, or punctuality
Talking about feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or stuck
It’s important to create a workplace culture where people feel safe to talk openly and where asking for help is seen as a strength and not a weakness.
How Employers Can Support Mental Wellbeing
A mentally healthy workplace starts with leadership. When managers and business owners actively promote mental health it creates a ripple effect across the team.
Here are some simple ways employers can create a more supportive environment:
Encourage open communication – Make space for check-ins, one-on-ones, and casual conversations where people can speak honestly about how they’re doing.
Offer flexibility where possible – Flexible hours, hybrid working, or mental health days can make a big difference to wellbeing.
Provide access to support – Promote Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), mental health hotlines, or counselling services.
Train leaders and managers – Equip people leaders with tools to recognise when staff might be struggling and how to respond supportively.
Celebrate small wins and acknowledge effort – Recognition goes a long way in helping people feel valued.
What Employees Can Do for Themselves
Everyone’s experience is different. What works for one person may not work for another. Some habits that support mental wellbeing at work include:
Taking regular breaks and stepping away from your desk
Setting clear boundaries between work and home time
Speaking up if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unclear about your role
Connecting with colleagues in a meaningful way
Making time for activities outside of work that bring you joy or calm
Even small changes (like walking at lunchtime or saying no to an extra task when you’re stretched) can help protect your energy and mental space.
A Healthy Workplace Supports the Whole Person
When people feel mentally well they’re more focused, creative, and resilient. They collaborate better, problem-solve more effectively, and are more likely to stay with an organisation long term.
Creating a culture that supports mental wellbeing isn’t about one-off wellness events or slogans — it’s about everyday actions, honest conversations, and leading by example. Whether you’re in a leadership role or part of a team, the way you show up matters.
By making mental wellbeing a shared priority we can build workplaces where people don’t just get through the week but genuinely thrive.