Lessons from a Doctor: Here are the 10 Things You Need in Your Workplace Wellbeing Strategy

Our work and our physical/mental wellbeing are inextricably linked. As a general practitioner of over 20 years, I’ve seen first-hand the impact the workplace can have on an extensive range of symptoms and conditions, such as anxiety, depression, joint pain, heart disease, and more. In fact, 66% of UK employees have experienced a work-related health condition, while 79% have experienced significant work-related stress and burnout. These issues can have a profound impact on an organisation’s ability to thrive in the long term, but can be mitigated through a purposeful and strategic workplace wellbeing strategy. 

But what cornerstones should you build your workplace wellness strategy on? Here are my top 10 most important elements to consider: 

1. Annual Lifestyle Screening 

Many organisations provide employees with annual health checks, but lifestyle checks are different. Not the usual blood pressure and cholesterol checks but a focus on daily routines and habits related to moving, eating, sleeping, connecting, relaxing - the roots of health. Add a depth of personalisation and precision with epigenetic testing, a cutting-edge test that gives employees a true indicator of their health at a cellular level with the mapped lifestyle changes they can make to enhance their wellbeing. 

2. Provide Tools For Employees To Discover Their Purpose

Alignment creates a feeling of belonging. When employee values align with company values, personal growth and business growth elevate each other. Know what matters to your employees. Let them share in shaping company values. Give them opportunities to champion programs with their intrinsic passions.

3. No To After Hours Emails

Sleep is our most important productivity tool. Evenings need to be a time for preparation for sleep not an extension of the working day. Set the tone at management level with no late night emails and remove the pressure to respond.

4. Flexible Work Options

We’re in an era of new working environments. Embrace this by allowing employees to set their own workspace and work hours. Tuning in to natural rhythms and routines will allow employees to work when they are at their most productive. Show your trust. No more work-life balance - it’s work-life blend.

5. Mental Health Resources/Support

Of course, mental health is just as important as physical health, and one of the commonest reasons for sickness absence. Employees should have access to a variety of mental health resources including therapy or wellness apps. A simple “how are you doing?” is an important conversation starter.

6. Standing Desks for All

Sitting for more than 6 hours a day increases risks of illness such as diabetes and heart disease, not to mention of course the added pressure on joints and impact on posture and back pain. There are so many options for stand up desks now,  from free standing motorised desks to simple platforms. And standing more also means you live longer. Save a life with a standing desk!

7. Set Up Volunteer Days

Doing good makes you feel good and also increases happiness and self-esteem as well as fostering team spirit. Provide free days for volunteering and planning team volunteering activities. 

8. Healthy Meals/Snacks

Make it easy for teams to access healthy meals and snacks during the workday. Food is a great way to connect and create lasting memories too.

9. Step Outside

Conduct some work activities outside. Light is an important barometer for our daily rhythms and stepping into the natural daylight for even 15 minutes a day can provide the right reset for a good night's sleep. 

10. Wellness Adventures

Everyone wants to get away from their workspace sometimes. Plan regular fun office-sponsored events and activities to keep workplace connectivity bolstered. 

Ultimately, happy and healthy employees have enhanced productivity, creativity and delivery, and create cohesion and connection in every organisation, resulting in enhanced retention and engagement.