With the holiday season squarely upon us, workplaces around the region are preparing for happy hours and vacation time.
For some, the holidays are a time of relaxation and enjoying time with friends and family. For others, it can be a stressful time filled with deadlines and anxiety, and last week’s final Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Eggs N’ Issues breakfast panel of the year discussed ways to combat this.
Audience members heard from a trio of experts on how to support fellow managers and employees in maintaining their mental health during the holiday season.
Panelists included St. Elizabeth Healthcare Wellness Manager Jessica Morris, Northern Kentucky University Employee Wellness Manager Kim Baker and Tier1 Performance Healthy Cultures Director Meg Switala. The panel was moderated by attorney James Noll.
In a survey conducted by nonprofit Mental Health America, 81% of respondents reported that their workplace stress affected their mental health in 2022, up from 78% in 2021.
Morris described a similar phenomenon, saying that oftentimes the biggest stressor in the workplace is the work itself.
“I think a lot of the stressors we have in the workplace is just the burden of the work itself, just so much on our plate so many things to, how we really balance that and balance it well,” said Morris.
Morris emphasized the importance of setting boundaries. She recommended taking targeted mental and physical breaks in addition to implementing strategic meditation.
Baker recommended that managers and employees show appreciation to one another throughout the year, rather than waiting for one or two big events. She argued this could improve the overall morale of the workplace.
“It’s going to boost morale,” Baker said. “An employee that feels appreciated is going to go above and beyond what they are required to do.”
Additionally, Baker said it was important to show empathy and compassion to others. This, too, would increase the overall spirit.
“Realizing that we are whole people, and we take our work home sometimes and sometimes we bring our home lives into the workplace,” Baker said. “It’s unrealistic to think that we can compartmentalize those two things.”
Switala added that organizations should be open to observing what she calls the “six core needs” that impact both teams and individuals: purpose, potential, capabilities, security, resources and how each one connects to another. This way, organizations can better assess the needs of both their teams and team members.
“Looking at it from the organizational level — where you may have gaps and how that impacts your teams,” Switala said. “Then individually, where you may be reflecting on those areas that may be creating stress for you.”
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, hybrid work has become a popular option for both managers and employees alike. However, the holiday season can also exacerbate feelings of loneliness among employees.
Morris said that each employee is different, noting that she enjoys remote work. Others can prefer a hybrid model or a more traditional in-office approach. Regardless, Morris said employees and managers should be conscious of their work environment and employ strategies that help foster productivity rather than hinder it.
“I think it comes down to what works best for you,” Morris said. “What is your environment and what do you need mentally and emotionally to do your best work.”
In terms of managing grief, Baker noted that the holidays can elicit a variety of emotions, both good and bad. She emphasized that it’s important for people “not to force anything” and to allow yourself space to experience your emotions.
“The holidays — it’s going to bring up memories and feelings and certain emotions. That can translate into behaviors, so just making space for yourself, not forcing anything,” Baker said. “If you’re feeling sad one day, allow yourself that and also don’t feel guilty for feeling the joy.”
Lastly, Switala suggested to take time to reflect on yourself and others while also recognizing there are others who are grieving during the holidays.
“I think, you know, recognizing that others may be grieving with you, alongside you, I think sharing that to the extent that you can,” Switala said.
