5 ways to improve workplace well-being and boost performance
Two and a half hours a week. Doesn’t seem much but it could be game-changing for organisations seeking to optimise productivity through embracing workplace well-being.
That was the premise of Cigna Healthcare’s 5% Pledge, which our panel of independent judges in ‘the mentl awards 2023’ named as their winner in the Outstanding contribution in healthcare to mental health category.
On the latest episode of ‘the mentl space’ podcast we sit down with Lianne Braganza D’Sylva, the Chief Marketing Officer and Customer Experience Lead at Cigna Healthcare Middle East and Africa, to dive into the inspiration for the campaign, both the personal and the professional, and the insights it has offered up.
The Pressures of Perfectionism
The podcast explores several significant moments and reflections on mental health. Lianne shares her definition of mental health, emphasising the importance of starting the day positively and being able to navigate through stress while maintaining productivity.
One key aspect discussed was the need to avoid self-judgment on challenging days and adopt a mindset that allows for a fresh start each morning. Lianne touches on her journey of self-realisation, especially in managing the pressure of perfectionism, a realisation that was prompted by her experience as a mother.
The episode also delves into the impact of external factors on mental health. She shares how her work on stress awareness campaigns and personal experiences, like supporting her mother through illness, reshaped her perspective on mental health, empathy, and understanding the struggles individuals carry beyond the surface.
Mental health challenges of the ‘Sandwich Generation’
We explore the concept of the “sandwich generation,” individuals caught between caring for young children and aging parents, highlighting the unique challenges faced by expats in balancing personal and professional responsibilities across long distances.
And, of course, we discuss the importance of organisational support and flexibility for employees facing such complex situations.
This conversation underscores the critical need for organisations and individuals to actively prioritise mental health and well-being.
By acknowledging the impact of external pressures, fostering empathy, and creating supportive work environments, a culture that values mental health can be cultivated. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of self-compassion, understanding individual challenges, and working towards a more inclusive and supportive approach to mental health in both personal and professional spheres.
A Must Listen
If you are an organisation which is seeking to boost its productivity by prioritising your people, this podcast is a must-listen.
5 Ways to Improve Workplace Well-being and Productivity
1. Acknowledge the Impact of Stress
Recognise the different types of stress, such as chronic stress and short-term stress, and understand their effects on both emotional and physical well-being. Take a holistic approach to stress management by identifying influencing factors and addressing them appropriately.
2. Support the Sandwich Generation
Offer understanding and support to employees who belong to the “sandwich generation,” those balancing the responsibilities of raising children and caring for aging parents. Acknowledge the unique challenges they face and provide flexibility and resources to help them manage their dual roles effectively.
3. Encourage Open Dialogue
Foster a culture of open communication within the organisation. Encourage leaders and managers to share their struggles and vulnerabilities, leading by example in embracing authenticity and vulnerability. This openness can create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges and seeking help when needed.
4. Target Leaders in Mental Health Initiatives
Engage leaders in mental health conversations and initiatives to reduce stigma and promote well-being in the workplace. Encourage leaders to demonstrate that it is acceptable to talk openly about mental health issues, leading to a positive cultural shift within the organisation.
5. Focus on Comprehensive Well-being
Address all aspects of well-being, including emotional, financial, physical, social, occupational, and spiritual well-being. Recognize the interplay between these factors and their impact on individual resilience and productivity. Provide resources, strategies, and tools to support employees in thriving both at work and in their personal lives.
