Is work good for your health?
Studies show that work is generally good for your health. As well as a financial reward it gives many of us self-esteem, companionship and status. This ‘feel good’ factor is strongly influenced by:
- Leaders who help employees see where they fit into the bigger organisational picture
- Effective line managers who respect, develop and reward their staff
- Consultation that values the voice of employees and listens to their views and concerns
- Relationships based on trust and shared values.
However, in unsupportive and demanding environments the risk of work negatively impacting wellbeing is increased.
Workplace triggers for stress and mental health problems
- Long hours and no breaks
- Unrealistic expectations or deadlines
- Overly pressurised working environments
- Unmanageable workloads or lack of control over work
- Inability to use annual leave
- A poor physical working environment
- High-risk roles
- Lone working
- Difficult interpersonal relationships
- Poor internal communication
- Poor managerial support
- Job insecurity or poorly managed change
Promoting wellbeing and tackling problems
We are committed to reducing negative factors and building a positive and transparent culture.
A culture of openness
Managers are encouraged to speak regularly with team members to check how they’re doing and to reflect on what might be causing them stress.
We will look to have team meetings where people are able to talk about wellbeing and stress as a group. In addition, we will:
- Promote open dialogue and embed positive attitudes and behaviours
- Help to normalise conversations about mental health
- Help staff to think more about their own and colleagues’ mental health and what factors can affect this.
We aim for excellence in communication. Where communication is clear, open, effective, manageable and responsive, everyone will be able to access all the information they need to do their job while avoiding overload.
Work/life balance
Sustained pressure and a poor work/life balance can quickly lead to stress and burnout, reducing levels of morale, creativity and performance. At Truebyte, we will look to avoid this by encouraging team members to:
- Work sensible hours
- Take full lunch breaks
- Rest and recuperate after busy periods
- Take their full annual leave entitlement.
Looking after yourself
Outside of work, aiming to get an adequate amount of sleep and a healthy balanced diet can also positively contribute to wellbeing. Try to drink alcohol sensibly, as drinking is not a good way to manage difficult feelings. Exercise can boost self-esteem and aid concentration.
For more information: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/
