Top 10 World Health Day Ideas for Work

n today's fast-paced world, where work-life balance seems to be a distant dream, it has become increasingly important for employers to prioritize the health and wellbeing of their staff. After all, a happy and healthy workforce is more productive, motivated, and engaged. With World Health Day around the corner (April 7th), it's the perfect time to reflect on the ways in which we can create a healthier and more positive working environment. 

According to recent studies, workplace stress and its impact on mental health is becoming an increasingly serious concern for employees and employers alike. A staggering 1 in 6.8 people experience mental health problems in the workplace, according to the Mental Health Foundation. That’s 14.7% of the workforce, and it’s a figure that continues to rise. In fact, research shows that workplace stress has increased by 20% over the past 30 years. 

This year on World Health Day  ̶  the World Health Organization will observe its 75^th anniversary and commemorate the public health successes that have improved quality of life during the last seven decades. It is also an opportunity to motivate action to tackle the health challenges of today  ̶  and tomorrow.  

In this blog, we'll discuss ten ideas that can help foster a working environment that prioritizes the health and wellbeing of staff.

Encourage Physical Activity

One of the most effective ways to promote employee health is to encourage physical activity. Encouraging staff to take regular breaks and participate in group exercise sessions can help to improve physical health, boost mental wellbeing, and promote team bonding. It will help the employees connect and eventually increase their productivity levels. 

Provide Healthy Food and Drinks

Another key factor to induce healthy habits among the workforce is to provide healthy food and drinks. This can include providing fresh fruit and vegetables, offering healthy snacks, and ensuring that staff have access to water throughout the day. This not only promotes physical health but also helps to improve mental clarity and productivity. ABM College offers breakfast to its employees every day including eggs, fruit, bread, and some other healthy options. It helps the staff kick start their day feeling energized! 

Promote Mental Health Awareness

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it's important to promote mental health awareness in the workplace. This can include offering training for managers and staff on how to recognize and respond to mental health issues, as well as offering access to mental health support services.

Offer Flexible Working Options

Flexible working options can help promote a better work-life balance, which can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health. This could include offering part-time or remote working options, flexible working hours, or job-sharing arrangements, wherever possible. 

Provide Ergonomic Workstations

Ergonomic workstations can help to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and promote good posture. This can include providing ergonomic chairs, adjustable desks, and footrests, as well as ensuring that computer monitors are positioned at the correct height.

Encourage Regular Health Checks

Regular health checks can help to identify potential health issues early on and prevent more serious health problems from developing. This could include offering free health checks to staff, as well as providing access to health screening services.

Create a Positive Work Environment

Creating a positive work environment can help to reduce stress levels, improve job satisfaction, and promote better mental health. This can include promoting a culture of positivity, recognizing and rewarding staff for their achievements, and providing opportunities for professional development.

Offer Employee Assistance Programs

Employee assistance programs can provide support to staff who are experiencing personal or work-related issues. This can include providing access to counseling services, financial advice, and legal support.

Encourage Volunteering and Community Engagement

Encouraging staff to get involved in volunteering and community engagement activities can help to improve mental wellbeing, promote team bonding, and contribute to the wider community. This could include organizing team volunteering events or providing time off to staff to participate in community activities.

Promote Blood Donation

Blood donation is a simple yet effective way to contribute to the wider community and promote good health. Encouraging staff to donate blood not only helps to save lives but can also have positive health benefits for the donor, including reducing the risk of heart disease and improving blood flow. To promote giving back to the community further, ABM College has been collaborating with the Canadian Blood Services since last year for this noble cause. This year, staff members of ABM College have signed up and donated their blood. Through this act of donating blood, ABM College hopes to inspire others to initiate some philanthropic activities. 

Conclusion

Prioritizing the health and well-being of staff is not only the right thing to do, but it can also have a positive impact on productivity, engagement, and job satisfaction. By implementing some of the ideas discussed in this blog, employers can create a working environment that promotes good health, which can have a ripple effect on both the individual and the wider community.

Let's make World Health Day a reminder to prioritize the welfare of our staff, and strive towards creating a workplace culture that values and supports its employees. By coming together, we can create a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce.

‍ABM College wishes you a Happy World Health Day!