Ten Ways to Prioritize Well-Being in the Workplace

TEN WAYS TO PRIORITIZE WELL-BEING IN THE WORKPLACE

World Mental Health Day

OCTOBER 10, 2023

Rowan St. Clair, Manager of Well-Being, AHAH

Written by Rowan St. Clair, Manager of Well-Being at All Hands and Hearts – All Hands and Hearts is committed to supporting the well-being of our community. Through the role of Manager of Well-Being, Rowan brings her wealth of experience in project management, mental health services and organizational wellbeing programs to develop initiatives and institutional practices to support the well-being of our staff, volunteers and the disaster-impacted communities we work alongside.

This World Mental Health Day, we are reflecting on the importance of well-being in the workplace. Whether you work in disaster relief or any other field, your well-being matters.

Well-being is more than just physical health; it encompasses many aspects of our lives, including our mental health, our connection to the natural environment, spirituality, societal bonds, emotional wellness, social harmony and overall life contentment.

Recognizing the factors that can influence your well-being is the first step to fostering a healthy and meaningful experience in any workplace.

At All Hands and Hearts (AHAH), we are committed to ensuring the well-being of our dedicated staff, volunteers and the disaster-affected communities we work alongside. Working in disaster zones can be physically and mentally demanding, exposing individuals to various challenges. To support our staff and volunteers, we offer a range of resources, including 24/7 counseling services with licensed therapists who understand the unique demands of disaster relief work. Furthermore, we have partnered with BetterHelp and Counselors Without Borders to support the psycho-social needs of staff, volunteers and the communities we work alongside.

In the challenging world of humanitarian work, it’s essential to prioritize your mental health to make a lasting impact. Your well-being is the cornerstone of your success, both in and out of the workplace.

Against a background of destruction, with a burnt car and burnt forest, two AHAH staff members and one volunteer standing by a newly felled hazard tree. Reducing the risks posed by unstable trees in California — AHAH staff members responding to wildfires in California

Here are ten tips to help you focus on maintaining positive and sustained well-being at work:

TEN WAYS TO PRIORITIZE YOUR WELL-BEING AT WORK

1. Healthy Eating and Hydration: Ensure you eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated. In demanding environments, maintaining a balanced diet and drinking enough water (aim for at least 15 cups or 120 oz daily) is vital. Keep water readily available, especially on construction sites.

2. Deep Breathing: Take a moment to practice deep breathing. A few deep breaths can help you relax and combat stress hormones, promoting a sense of calm during challenging situations.

3. Stay Connected: Keep your friends and family updated on your projects and experiences. Staying connected with your support network is essential for your mental well-being.

4. Limit Social Media and News Consumption: Constant exposure to stress-inducing news and social media can be overwhelming. Set boundaries and limit your consumption to reduce stress.

5. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene: Establish a sleep routine and stick to it. Avoid accumulating a sleep debt and trying to compensate for it on weekends, as this can disrupt your circadian rhythms and reduce the quality of your sleep.

6. Follow a Routine: Maintain a consistent daily routine, including regular meal times and structured work hours. Having a predictable schedule can help keep your days in rhythm.

7. Monitor Your Mental Health: Pay attention to your moods and actions. Reflect on how you’re feeling and ask yourself, “What changes would an old friend notice?” Recognize when it’s time to seek help from a mental health professional.

8. Spend Time Outdoors: Dedicate at least five minutes each day to spending time outside. Connecting with nature can have a positive impact on your mental well-being.

9. Morning Sunlight: Start your day by enjoying natural sunlight before checking your phone. Exposure to natural light can help reset your sleep/wake cycle and boost your mood.

10. Try Something New: Keep your enthusiasm and inspiration alive by exploring new activities or experiences. Trying something new can help refresh your perspective and rejuvenate your mind.

Always remember that your well-being is truly important. These simple tips can help you create and maintain a positive sense of well-being while making a difference in the world.