Celebrating International Day of Friendship

International Friendship Day is celebrated annually on July 30th, a global event established by the United Nations. This day encourages people worldwide to connect with friends and celebrate the significant impact friendships have on our mental health and wellbeing.

Loneliness, often referred to as a silent epidemic, has a considerable negative impact on health and wellbeing. Chronic loneliness can lead to a range of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, and it also increases the risk of physical health problems. According to research published in the journal Heart, loneliness and social isolation are associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke. Developing and enhancing friendships can greatly improve overall wellbeing and mitigate these risks.

Good friends offer comfort, support, and a sense of belonging. To honour this special day, here are some meaningful ways to celebrate friendships in the workplace:

1. Virtual Coffee Break:

Schedule a virtual coffee break with a colleague. Use this time to catch up and discuss non-work-related topics, strengthening your bond.

2. Express Your Appreciation:

Acknowledge the importance of your colleagues. Send a message or email to let them know how much you appreciate their support and friendship.

3. Send a Thoughtful Gift:

Brighten a coworker’s day with a small, thoughtful gift, such as an e-gift card, a book, or a handwritten note.

4. Plan a Team Building Activity:

Organise a virtual or in-person team-building activity. This could be an online game, a group project, or a collaborative exercise that encourages interaction and camaraderie.

5. Reconnect with Former Colleagues:

Reach out to colleagues you haven’t interacted with in a while. A simple message or call can rekindle your professional relationship and friendship.

6. Share Memories on Internal Platforms:

Use your company’s internal communication platforms to share your favourite work-related memories and encourage others to do the same. Use #InternationalFriendshipDay to celebrate the day.

7. Welcome New Team Members:

Make an effort to introduce yourself to new team members. A friendly conversation can help them feel welcomed and might lead to a lasting friendship.

In the workplace, friendships are not just beneficial but crucial. They play a vital role in employee wellbeing and overall productivity. Genuine connections at work reduce feelings of isolation and stress, enhance engagement, and improve team dynamics. Employees with strong workplace friendships are often more motivated, collaborative, and satisfied with their jobs, leading to higher retention rates and better performance.

OptiMe’s Approach to Fostering Friendships and Wellbeing

At OptiMe, we are dedicated to promoting wellbeing for all, with a particular focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Our platform and app combines the Six Pillars of Wellbeing including MyRelationships with individualised wellbeing solutions and real-time data.?

On this International Day of Friendship, let’s celebrate the bonds that enrich our lives and recognise the importance of these connections, both personally and professionally. Friendships are a cornerstone of a happy, healthy life, and at OptiMe, we are committed to supporting these invaluable relationships. For more information please contact [email protected]