Mental Wellbeing for Flexible Workspaces: Creating a Productive, Supportive Workday
When the days grow shorter and the weather gets colder, it’s easy to feel a bit of a mental slump. For some, the transition into winter means mulled wine and Christmas lights; for others, the dark days bring feelings of isolation, lethargy, and a dip in motivation.
For businesses of every size and industry, the shift in seasons can serve as a reminder as to how important mental wellbeing is in the workplace. Maintaining a healthy mind is just as critical as meeting year-end deadlines. Fortunately, flexible workspaces are uniquely equipped to support employees’ wellbeing with amenities and policies designed to keep mental health a top priority.
Why should metal health be a key focus in the workplace, and how can flexible workspaces support you and your teams’ wellbeing? Read on to find out more!
Why Mental Health Matters in the Workplace
Mental health isn’t just about feeling good; it’s the cornerstone of productivity, creativity, and collaboration. No doubt there have been times in your own career when your mental health has impacted your day-today. When employees feel mentally well, they are more engaged, focused, and motivated. Conversely, when mental health is neglected, it can lead to burnout, reduced productivity, and even long-term health problems.
A good manager cares about their team, both inside and out of the office, regardless of work duties. But when it comes to ensuring a productive and successful workday, employers and employees alike should pay attention to mental wellbeing, particularly as seasons change and winter months bring additional challenges.
Flexible workspaces offer the perfect environment for addressing mental health needs, as they are specifically designed with adaptability and work-life balance in mind. These spaces provide options and amenities that help people maintain mental wellness, creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
1. Flexible Working Hours for a Healthier Work-Life Balance
One of the biggest benefits of working in a flexible workspace is, of course, flexibility. Many businesses who opt for a shared working environment over traditional office space allow employees to set their own hours, or work within a flexible schedule. This can be a game-changer when it comes to mental health.
Flexible hours give employees the autonomy to work when they feel most productive and energised. For some, this might mean starting the day early, particularly during winter when the days are shorter. For others, working into the evening may allow more time to take advantage of natural sunlight in the morning. By allowing employees to customise their schedules, flexible workspaces help them strike a balance between work and personal life. This balance can lead to reduced stress and better sleep, not to mention allowing more time for the hobbies and activities that keep their mental wellbeing in check.
Pro Tip: Encourage employees to take breaks throughout the day and to set boundaries for their working hours. Creating a routine, even in a flexible schedule, can help maintain stability and minimise stress.
2. Healthier Commuting Options to Reduce Stress
Let’s be real — commuting can be a stressful experience, especially when it involves long hours, packed public transport, or endless traffic. Flexible workspaces like Grafter, however, offer a range of healthier commuting options that can have a positive impact on mental health.
Firstly, many flexible workspaces are located in central, accessible areas, making them easier to reach. Additionally, some workspaces provide bike storage and shower facilities, encouraging people to cycle or walk to work instead of relying on cars or crowded trains. These alternative commuting methods allow employees to incorporate a bit of exercise into their day, which has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall mental health.
Pro Tip: If your flexible workspace is near a park, encourage employees to take a short walk during lunch. Spending even a few minutes outside can help clear the mind and reduce anxiety.
3. Wellness Services: Gym Memberships, Yoga Classes, and More
Physical and mental health are intricately linked, which is why many flexible workspaces offer access to wellness services such as gym memberships, on-site yoga classes, or meditation rooms. Physical activity is known to release endorphins, which can help alleviate stress and improve mood – an essential component of resilient mental health.
By integrating wellness services directly into the workspace, these spaces make it easy for employees to incorporate healthy habits into their daily routine. Whether it’s squeezing in a lunchtime workout at a nearby partner gym or joining a meditation session after logging off, these activities allow employees to focus on both physical and mental wellbeing, without having to leave the office.
Pro Tip: Encourage employees to take advantage of these wellness services and make time for regular physical activity. Even a quick 15-minute stretch session can make a difference.
4. Creating Community to Combat Loneliness
For remote or hybrid workers, loneliness can be a real concern. Working alone at home can lead to feelings of isolation, which can negatively impact mental health. And when the days get shorter and colder, finding the motivation to get out of the house can quickly dwindle. Flexible workspaces, however, are designed to foster community, providing a space where people can connect, collaborate, and engage.
In flexible workspaces, there are plenty of opportunities for social interaction. Many offer communal areas, like lounges or cafes, where members can meet and socialise casually. Additionally, these spaces often host events, from coffee mornings to after-work mixers, to help members build connections beyond their immediate colleagues. These gatherings create a sense of belonging and provide a platform for networking, team building, and collaboration.
Pro Tip: Managers should encourage team members to attend in-person meetings or social events whenever possible. Simple activities like team lunches or monthly get-togethers can help everyone feel more connected and supported.
5. An Atmosphere for Mental Wellbeing
A key part of supporting mental health is in providing an optimised, peaceful, and engaging atmosphere. Our physical environment effects our mental one, which is why flexible workspace providers design offices that are as comfortable and productive as possible.
If you’ve ever come into a drab, grey office from a cold, dark morning, you’ll know your day follows suit. In a flexible working environment, on the other hand, you’ll likely find ergonomic furniture, live greenery, and comforting lighting designed to support your very best day and energise and motivate your team.
Pro Tip: When days are short and dark in winter, opt for mid-tone lighting that mimics natural sunlight to keep teams motivated and engaged.
Flexible workspaces have transformed the modern working landscape by making it easier for employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance – and that includes mental wellbeing. Prioritising mental health and helping employees thrive both inside and out of the office should be a key factor in any business’s success.
As we head into the darker months, keep in mind that mental health is an ongoing priority. Taking a proactive approach to supporting mental wellbeing, both individually and as a team, will ensure that everyone can weather the winter season with resilience, productivity, and a sense of community. After all, a healthier mind makes for a happier, more productive workspace — and that benefits everyone involved.
Support your team’s most productive, happiest, and healthiest day. Talk to our Sales Team about your workspace options today.