Let’s Talk About Mental Health at Work
Mental Health Awareness Week is here (Monday 12th May – Sunday 18th May) offering the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and take meaningful steps toward improving your wellbeing in the workplace. Whether you’re a freelancer, a remote worker, or part of a buzzing coworking community like Old Street Workrooms, your mental health matters.
With a staggering 1 in 4 people in England experiencing a mental health issue every year, and nearly 10% of UK adults taking time off for mental health reasons in the past 12 months, it’s clear that mental health is a growing concern. Workplace stress is reaching alarming levels, with 63% of UK employees reporting signs of burnout.
So, what’s the good news? Small, everyday habits can make a huge difference to your day. By embedding mindful habits and promoting a positive work environment, we can all make mental wellbeing a priority in our day-to-day lives.
Let’s dive into daily tips to help you boost your mental health at work, feel more connected, and thrive in a workplace that prioritises your wellbeing.
A Moment of Calm
It’s Monday, and your to-do list already feels overwhelming. Before starting your day, just hit ‘pause’. Mindfulness is a simple yet effective way to reduce stress, improve your focus, and help you to stay calm when deadlines mount.
Here are some ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine:
- Take five minutes before you start working to practice meditation or deep breathing. Apps like Headspace and Calm are great tools to guide you.
- Savour your morning coffee – seriously, put your phone down and enjoy your coffee without distractions!
- Schedule regular breaks throughout the day. Take a few deep breaths or a brisk walk to quickly reset your mind and help you stay focused.
At Old Street WorkRooms, find a quiet spot for a short mindfulness break and refocus, with a freshly brewed coffee and relax.
Build Meaningful Connections
Work is better when we feel connected to others. For freelancers and remote workers in particular, feelings of isolation can take a toll on overall health and wellbeing, which is why social interactions continue to be so important. With 7.8% of adults in the UK feeling lonely ‘always or often’, building small, but meaningful connections can boost your mood and daily motivation.
If someone seems a little off, ask, “How are you really doing?” – it could make a big difference.
A simple “hello” or “how’s your day going?” to a coworker can go a long way. Take time to chat with colleagues and make an effort to connect with someone new. With world-class theatres, museums, art galleries and so much more on your doorstep, explore all the local area has to offer.
Old Street is bursting with amazing venues to meet people and enjoy a break. Nearby Pasta Nostra, Grind, and The Nest Cellar offer excellent spaces for coffee breaks or lunch catch-ups.
Join our regular networking events or simply chat with someone new—you never know what opportunities may arise from casual conversations with coworking colleagues, entrepreneurs or creatives.
Move Your Body, Boost Your Mind
A sedentary work life, with long hours sat at the desk isn’t just bad for your physical health – it can severely affect your mental health, too. Regular physical activity or incorporating gentle movement into your day can help to reduce stress, increase your energy levels and improve your overall mood.
- Take a short walk before work or during lunch. Nearby Bunhill Fields or the Barbican gardens offer peaceful green spaces perfect for clearing your head, getting some fresh air or relaxing with a good book.
- Try desk yoga or do regular stretches at your desk to relieve tension in your back, neck and shoulders.
- If you prefer a full workout, Virgin Active is just around the corner, offering quick lunchtime classes, or get pumped at an after-work gym class.
- At Old Street WorkRooms, our regular events offer great opportunities to network or relax. Our inviting rooftop terrace also offers opportunities for socialising on sunny days.
At Old Street WorkRooms, our members have access to a lovely rooftop terrace where they can unwind, socialise in style, and foster a sense of community.
Set Boundaries & Manage Workload
One of the biggest challenges in today’s workplace is finding a healthy work-life balance. Overworking can result in burnout, so it’s important to establish key boundaries around your working hours that can enable you to remain productive, without feeling overwhelmed, incorporating time for both work and those much-needed moments to rest and recharge.
- Stick to set work hours and resist the temptation to answer emails or take calls in the evenings or the weekend unless absolutely necessary. Leave work behind when the day is over.
- Make sure your colleagues and clients know when you’re available and when you’re offline.
At The Old Street WorkRooms, we provide quiet zones for focus, as well as social areas to unwind or socialise. These varied environments help you balance your need for productivity with the opportunity to connect and relax, anytime, anywhere.
Celebrate the Wins
Recognising and celebrating achievements, big or small, can work wonders for your mood, motivation and overall job satisfaction. Work should ultimately be about more than just ticking off tasks, it should feel fulfilling too.
- Reflect on what you accomplished this week, no matter how small. It could be finishing a project, learning a new skill on your own accord, or simply getting through a busy week in the city.
- Say thank you to a colleague for making a difference to your working day or busy week, or even a client who may have made you smile that week.
- Treat yourself! A coffee from FWD: Coffee, your favourite snack, or an early finish can be a great reward.
Did you know? 52% of employees feel more engaged and productive when their workplace prioritises mental health. If more companies embraced this, we’d all be in a better place.
Keep the Momentum Going
Looking after our mental wellbeing is an ongoing journey, where small, daily habits can make a real difference to your overall health and wellbeing. At Old Street WorkRooms, we’re passionate about creating a space that nurtures your mental health and promotes a sense of community.
Our mission is to offer a supportive environment where you can grow, thrive, and take care of your mental health, irrespective of whether you’re here for a day, a week, or a year. Prioritising your mental wellbeing will lead to happier, healthier, and more productive you, and that’s a win for everyone.
Need a workspace that supports your wellbeing? Come visit us today and see what we’re all about.