Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, and yet it often takes a backseat in the workplace. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, and burnout are on the rise across all industries due to long hours and the high demands placed on employees. It’s important for employers to take steps to ensure that their employees have access to the mental health resources they need in order to stay healthy both physically and mentally.

There are many ways that employers can help improve mental health in the workplace. From creating supportive environments where people feel safe to speak up about their struggles to offering mental health benefits like counseling or therapy sessions- there are countless strategies available for businesses looking for ways to support their team’s mental wellness. The following blog post will explore 13 effective ways employers can promote positive mental health at work.

 

1) Provide Mental Health Benefits

Providing mental health benefits is an increasingly popular way for employers to support the well-being of their employees. Mental health benefits typically cover a range of services, from self-help programs and counseling to psychiatric care and medication. Research shows that providing these benefits can reduce absenteeism, improve productivity, decrease burnout, and increase morale in the workplace.

2) Encourage Team Building Activities

Team building activities not only build strong relationships between co-workers, but they can also improve mental health in the workplace. These activities can give employees an opportunity to get to know each other better while having a bit of fun and relieving stress. Examples of team-building activities include going on retreats, attending corporate events, engaging in outdoor activities, and playing team sports.

3) Increase Employee Flexibility

One of the best ways to improve mental health in the workplace is to increase employee flexibility. Allowing employees to work flexible hours, remote work, and work-from-home arrangements can help reduce stress levels and create a more supportive environment. According to research, flexible work policies have been shown to lead to better engagement and improved performance.

4) Offer Educational Resources And Programs

Offering educational resources and programs is a great way to help improve mental health in the workplace. By providing employees with access to educational materials, employers can help their teams stay informed on the latest developments in mental health research and treatments. Educative resources and programs can include everything from online courses and webinars to books or seminars that cover topics related to mental health.

5) Implement Stress Reduction Strategies

One of the most important steps employers can take to improve mental health in the workplace is to implement stress reduction strategies. Stress can have a negative impact on employee productivity and morale, so it’s important for employers to make sure their teams are equipped with the tools they need to manage their stress levels.

6) Get A Workplace Chaplain

Having a workplace chaplain can be an invaluable resource as they know how to improve mental health in the workplace. A workplace chaplain is someone who provides spiritual and emotional support to employees in the form of counseling, prayer, and other services. They can help employees manage stress, address difficult situations in their lives, and find ways to improve their overall well-being.

7) Encourage Workplace Exercise Routines

Exercising regularly is an effective way to improve mental health in the workplace. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and boost productivity. Employers can encourage workplace exercise routines by providing employees with access to fitness centers or gyms, offering lunchtime yoga classes, or sponsoring sports teams or other recreational activities.

8) Introduce Meditation Practices And Mindfulness Exercises

Meditation and mindfulness exercises are becoming increasingly popular in the workplace. These practices can help employees focus their minds, reduce stress, and improve mental health. Employers can introduce meditation practices to their staff by offering classes or workshops on the subject or providing access to online tutorials and programs.

9) Take Action On Workplace Bullying And Harassment Issues

Workplace bullying and harassment can have serious impacts on an employee’s mental health, affecting their productivity and ability to perform their job. Employers should take active steps to prevent workplace bullying and harassment in order to maintain a positive working environment. This can include implementing anti-bullying policies, conducting regular training on bullying prevention, and providing resources for employees to report any incidents of bullying or harassment.

10) Lower Demands On Employees With Reasonable Deadlines

Lowering demands on employees with reasonable deadlines is another way to improve mental health in the workplace. Working with unreasonable or tight deadlines can be incredibly stressful, causing employees to feel overwhelmed and anxious. Employers should strive to set reasonable deadlines for projects and tasks, allowing employees time to properly complete their work without feeling rushed or overburdened.

11) Prioritize Self-Care And Mental Health Days Off

Prioritizing self-care and mental health days off should be an essential part of improving mental health in the workplace. Taking regular breaks to recharge can help employees feel refreshed and energized while also lowering stress levels. It is important that employers acknowledge the importance of self-care and provide their team with the necessary resources for taking time off whenever needed.

12) Implement Open Communication Platforms For Employees To Express Concerns

Implementing open communication platforms for employees to express their concerns is an essential step employers can take to improve mental health in the workplace. Through these platforms, employees have the opportunity to ask questions, communicate their issues, and discuss any problems they may be experiencing without fear of repercussions. These platforms can provide a safe space for employees to express their feelings and receive the support they need.

13) Regularly Evaluate Working Conditions For Potential Improvements

Regularly evaluating working conditions for potential improvements is an important step employers can take to improve mental health in the workplace. Evaluating working conditions can help identify areas of improvement that may reduce stress and boost morale among employees. Employers should consider implementing systems that regularly evaluate employee satisfaction with their job, working environment, and any other factors related to their work experience.

There are many steps employers can take to improve mental health in the workplace. From providing mental health benefits to regularly evaluating working conditions for potential improvements – these simple steps can make all the difference in improving employees’ mental health and well-being. It is essential for employers to recognize the importance of mental health and take the necessary steps to ensure their team is supported and healthy.

Gardens are the ideal place to do some outdoor entertaining late into the evening. Before you host your first garden gathering, you need to create the ideal outdoor living space. Plenty of elements come to mind, but here are four key things every garden entertainment space needs:

Good lighting

It’s going to get dark when you’re entertaining at night, so you need to have a light source to keep the party going. There are loads of beautiful ways you can light your garden when it gets dark. Hidden LED lights work beautifully in flowerbeds while hanging lights can be attached to your house for brighter lighting. Lanterns and outdoor lamps also work well – and I’m a big fan of fairy lights strewn across the entertainment area. Now, you and your guests can see one another all night long.

A heat source

As the sun goes down, the temperature is likely to drop. You don’t want a patio full of shivering guests, so a heat source is needed. Plenty of portable outdoor heaters exist out there, but perhaps you should consider outdoor fire pits instead. They add a splash of style to your outdoor living space while also providing some extra light. Plus, it’s a brilliant centerpiece that doubles up as a conversation starter with guests.

Comfortable seating

Will your guests be comfortable in plastic outdoor chairs the whole evening? Probably not – and they don’t need to be. You will find a wealth of super comfortable outdoor furniture that you can sit on for hours. There are outdoor sofas, chairs, and anything else you can think of. Be sure to double-check that the furniture is suitable for outdoors – don’t bring out your living room furniture as it’s not weatherproof. Some comfy seating will keep all of your guests happy and relaxed.

Some sort of overhead coverage

Finally, it’s worth having some sort of overhead coverage. Depending on where you’re hosting the garden gatherings, you could use an awning or some sort of pergola. Perhaps you may want to simplify things and opt for a large umbrella. The purpose of coverage is to get some extra protection from the elements. You’re unlikely to stay outside in a big rain shower, but it’s useful if there’s a slight drizzle. Also, it traps in more of the heat from your heat source, keeping the area nice and cosy when it gets late.

It goes without saying that your garden gatherings need to be hosted on solid ground. This means either a patio or decking should be present – it’s hardly ideal if everyone is on the lawn. This will ruin your lawn and also cause discomfort for guests as furniture might be wobbly and annoying. So, once you’ve got your patio or decking, you can start adding these necessities to the area. Now, you’re in the ideal position to host the best garden parties anyone has attended. Guests will be comfortable, the atmosphere will be perfect, and there’ll be no excuse not to enjoy yourselves late into the night.

It is never too late until it is – but while you still have time, you still have the time to make changes and do what really matters to you. There are a lot of adults who regret never taking the time to learn a hobby or who missed out on education due to circumstances. But there is never a better time than now to do something new and to change how your future looks.

From braces for adults and adult swimming lessons to taking a course and studying your way into a new professional, here is how to reframe your mindset and make the leap.

So let’s get into it!

Potential

No matter what your circumstances are, you have unlimited potential – there is nothing that you can’t achieve. And that might sound wild when you don’t have three cents to rub together and are working three jobs – but it is vital.

When you start to view yourself as having unlimited and untapped potential, you can reframe things that are obstacles into challenges.

Not only that, but you renew your confidence in yourself to get things done.

Free resources

Not everyone has any money to throw at learning new things, but luckily there are a lot of resources that you have access to for free. If you have access to the internet, you can look for courses that are free in your chosen area of interest – just keep in mind you’ll need to make time to study!

The library is a great starting point if you want to broaden your horizons, and there are often clubs and classes too. Depending on your circumstances, you might be able to take an in-person course for free – start looking at what you have access to for nothing.

How to find learning resources online.

Priority

What are your priorities? What are they really? Most people will say that they want to be a ‘something’, but instead of making an effort to learn, explore and be that thing, they talk about everything that is in the way. If what you want is truly the priority (after things like children and family, of course), then make sure you are holding it in that place.

Realistic

Being realistic about everything is important – you probably won’t master a whole topic overnight (but never say never). You need to give yourself the grace to do your best – and be realistic about what that is going to look like. Are you going to be able to put in several hours every day? Or is once a week more likely?

When you set achievable goals, you are more likely to be able to tick them off your list. Ticking off your goals little by little will eventually add up to achieving the biggest goals that you had set for yourself.

Start treating your time like it means something, and doing the things that really matter to you.

And while it might be one of the most difficult things to do, being grateful for what you have can put you in a more positive mindset – which can help immensely with achieving future goals. Not sure where to start with gratitude? Check this out: How To Be More Grateful Every Day.

Your home life should be pleasurable and your property should be a place you want to spend time in. If you’re a busy person with a demanding career and have other daily to-dos on your mind, then it may be challenging to look after your home as well.

The downside of not doing so is that you may end up living in a messy and outdated space and it will be harder to sell your property one day in the future. Instead, get on board with and learn how to create a more rewarding and enjoyable home life.

Get Organized

Create a more rewarding and enjoyable home life by getting organized and making lists. Figure out what needs to get done first and foremost and tackle your top priorities right away. This way if you run out of time in the day then you can push these tasks to another time. Make lists of what needs your attention and write down what you want to complete daily, weekly, and monthly. It may also help to make a list before heading to the grocery store so you remember what you need to buy.

Establish A Weekly Chore List

Another way to create a more rewarding and enjoyable home life is to establish a weekly chore list. Record down what you hope to get done and then roll up your sleeves and be ready to work hard. Include certain to-dos such as cleaning your various rooms, vacuuming, and doing laundry. Try to keep up by folding and putting your laundry away when it’s done if you can. In the case you notice your clothes aren’t fully getting dry then be glad to know that you can get a dryer heating element here. When you are diligent and committed to keeping up with your chore list then you’ll find it’s easier to maintain your property and that you’re happier in your home.

Get A Pet

You can also create a more rewarding and enjoyable home life by getting a pet. A pet is a great companion to have and will make you feel relaxed, happy, and well. Having a pet around to greet you when you get home from work or to play with in your free time is an effective stress reliever. There are plenty of pets who need a good home so think about adopting a pet if this interests you at all. Pets are especially delightful to have around when you live alone.

Improve the Lighting

Boost your mood and enhance the atmosphere of your home by focusing on improving the lighting. Create a more rewarding and enjoyable home life by drawing in as much natural light as possible and choosing to layer your lighting. Also, place out plenty of lamps and candles and set the right mood based on the time of day or what you’re doing. Having enough lighting options is vital in the winter months when it can be dark and dreary.
Decorate & Update it

Take the time to decorate your property if you want to create a more rewarding and enjoyable home life. Update your home by making repairs and fixes to it, adding elements that make it appear more modern, and working on enhancing the curb appeal. Consider which updates will provide a return on your investment and add value so that you are using your money wisely. For example, make updates to the kitchen and bathrooms which are essential rooms in any home. Decorating and updating your home will ensure you’re keeping up with the latest trends and that you can attract potential buyers in the future when you want to put it on the market.

Find Ways to Reduce Stress & Relax

These types of updates and enhancements will help you to have a more beautiful and comfortable home to live in. However, it’s also important that you take good care of yourself and your health for the best outcome. Find ways to reduce stress and relax in your home such as by creating a reading nook or adding a sunroom where you can sit in the sunshine and rest. Another idea is to set up a home gym you can use as you please or take advantage of when the weather is poor.
Conclusion

Your home life is an important aspect that impacts your mood and wellbeing. It’s in your best interest to work hard to create a more rewarding and enjoyable place to live. These tips will help get you started in the right direction so that you can be happier and feel more relaxed at home.

Dusting is probably the worst part of cleaning your house. You hate getting the dust cloth out because you know exactly what will happen. You’ll spray some polish down and wipe away at the dusty surface, only to realize half of the dust doesn’t get picked up. It floats into the air as you clean before settling down. This makes things incredibly aggravating as you feel like you’re not cleaning anything.

Some parts of your home are easier to clean than others. Wooden surfaces and desks tend to be really compliant. They let you pick up dust with ease, so you get a sense of cleanliness for once! Then, you have the areas of your home that are most prone to dust. They collect it like it’s valuable to them in some way – it’s almost impressive how dusty these areas get.

The problem is, these areas are also harder to clean. So, you end up with too much dust in your house, which leads to all sorts of problems. It ruins the air quality and can cause allergies for some members of your family. Well, no more! Here are the dustiest parts of your house and how to deal with them:

Electronics

This mainly refers to your TV stand, but it can also encompass computers and other electronics dotted around the place. Because of the static charges emanating from electrical items, this draws the dust to them. At the same time, the static keeps the dust in place. This is why your TV stand or computer always seems dustier than everything else in the room – even if you cleaned them a day or two ago.

How do you deal with this dusty problem?

It’s simpler than you think. Arm yourself with a microfiber cloth as this clings to dust and gets it to move away from surfaces. But, ensure you spray the cloth with a dusting spray beforehand. This is where most people mess up as they spray the surface. The spray is designed to keep the dust on the cloth after it’s picked up, so it doesn’t float back down and coat the area. Spraying the TV stand will make it harder to pick up the dust!

Skirting Boards

Skirting boards are those small boards running along the bottom of your walls, joining them to the floor. This is sometimes where you run wires around your house, though they’re mainly there for decorative purposes.

Unfortunately, skirting boards are prone to picking up dust. Why? Because they’re low down, meaning dust falls from the air and collects in all the crevices. Moreover, skirting boards are typically neglected. You forget to clean them and they don’t get dusted when you wipe other surfaces. Likewise, they’re not vacuumed when you get the vacuum cleaner out, leading to months of dust building up.

How do you deal with this dusty problem?

There are two approaches:

• Use a feather duster
• Use your vacuum cleaner

A feather duster is a useful tool that every homeowner needs when cleaning. It helps you reach those places that are normally out of your way. Spray your feather duster with dusting spray and wipe it along the skirting boards. This should remove the dust in one fell swoop – if some lands on the floor, you can vacuum it up.

Speaking of which, using a vacuum cleaner is useful to properly remove as much dust as possible. Use the nozzle attachment and go along the skirting boards, sucking up the dust. If you want, you could use your feather duster and spray after. Just ensure you’re cleaning this area of your home every week to prevent the dust from building up again.

Fans

Your house will have a fair few fans dotted around the place. This could include ceiling fans or extractor fans – both of which collect so much dust. Ceiling fans tend to get dusty as they’re on your ceiling and you don’t tend to look at them. So, you don’t notice how much dust is collecting on top of the blades. The worst thing is, when you turn the fan on, it just disperses some of this dust around the room.

Nevertheless, extractor fans are the bigger issue. They suck things up to try and remove moisture from the air, but this means they also suck up dust particles. Thus, the dust gets stuck in the fan and stays there forever – unless you take action.

How do you deal with these dusty problems?

Now, ceiling fans can be dusted like any other area of your home using a cloth or feather duster. All you need to do is get up on a ladder to reach the fan. Make sure someone is holding it steady if necessary.

Extractor fans are slightly more challenging. The good news is there are sites like https://highlandparkhousekeeping.com/ where you can hire cleaners to specifically clean your extractor fans and give them a deep dusting. It’s perhaps smarter to do this rather than doing it yourself to avoid breaking things as you take the fans apart. Get this done at least once a year to ensure your extractor fans are truly clean. Meanwhile, you could use your vacuum cleaner to suck away dust from the fan every week. It won’t do a deep job, but it will still help.

Cabinets

Okay, your cabinets themselves aren’t that bad at collecting dust. It’s the top of them that’s the problem. Any kitchen cabinets with a space between them and the ceiling will undoubtedly be the dustiest parts of your home.

Why? Because they’re neglected! You never look above your cabinets – why would you? It’s out of sight, out of mind – which is not a good mantra to have when it comes to home maintenance.

How do you deal with this dusty problem?

Much like your ceiling fans, you’ll need a ladder and your cleaning materials. Dust the surface as you would any other surface – though you might need your vacuum cleaner again if it’s really dusty.

And on that note, we’ve dealt with the dustiest areas of your home. All surfaces collect dust, but some places are more prone than others. Now you know the problem areas to focus on and how to deal with the dust!