Blue Monday – Supporting the wellbeing of your people.

Blue Monday, often dubbed as the gloomiest day of the year, can cast a shadow over the workplace. Falling on the third Monday of January, this day is associated with post-holiday blues, colder weather, and sometimes the realisation of New Year resolutions slipping away. However, employers have the power to turn Blue Monday into an opportunity to boost employee morale and focus on creating a positive work environment. In this blog, we’ll explore ways employers can support their team on Blue Monday and promote overall mental well-being.

Open Communication Channels: Encourage open conversations about mental health. Let your employees know that it’s okay to talk about their feelings and that support is available. Create a safe space where employees feel comfortable expressing their emotions without fear of judgment.

Flexible Work Arrangements: Recognise that the post-holiday season can be overwhelming for many. If possible, it may be a good option to offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or adjusted schedules, to help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities.

Wellness Programs: Implement wellness programs that focus on both physical and mental well-being. Consider organising mindfulness sessions, yoga classes, or workshops on stress management. These activities can provide employees with valuable tools to cope with the challenges they may face.

Small Gestures of Appreciation: On Blue Monday, surprise your team with small gestures of appreciation. This could include personalised notes of gratitude, a surprise breakfast, or a mid-afternoon treat. Acknowledging their hard work and contributions can go a long way in boosting morale.

Encourage Breaks and Social Interactions: Remind employees to take breaks and step away from their desks. Encourage social interactions by organising team-building activities or a casual get-together during lunch. Positive social connections can significantly contribute to a positive work environment.

Provide Mental Health Resources: Ensure that employees are aware of the mental health resources available to them, such as employee assistance programs, counselling services, or mental health outlets. Make it clear that seeking help is a sign of strength and is supported by the organisation.

Promote Work-Life Balance: Emphasise the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Discourage excessive overtime and encourage employees to take their allocated annual leave days. A well-rested and rejuvenated team is likely to be more productive and engaged.

Recognize Achievements: Take the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of your team. Highlighting individual and collective accomplishments can boost morale and instil a sense of pride among employees.

By taking proactive steps to support employees on Blue Monday, employers can contribute to a positive workplace culture and foster a sense of well-being within their team. Remember, small gestures and consistent efforts throughout the year can make a significant difference in the mental health and job satisfaction of your employees.

How can oneHR help?

oneHR provides business with a platform to communicate with staff, capture key conversations and track any absence relating to mental ill-health. Contact the oneHR team today for more information on how we can help you to support the wellbeing of your people.

Email: contact@onehrsoftware.com

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