Depressed or anxious at work? These 10 things must change

An article on corporatewellnessmagazine.com agrees that the physical layout of the office, colours of the walls, furniture, lighting, and other design elements can have a significant impact on employee well-being, motivation, and productivity.

“Poor workplace design can lead to a wide range of mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, and depression. Conversely, a well-designed workplace can boost mood, improve focus, and enhance overall mental well-being.”

The article says these factors also need to be7. Temperature

Another crucial factor in workplace design is temperature. Studies have shown that temperatures that are too hot or too cold can negatively impact cognitive function, leading to decreased productivity and increased errors.

“Optimal temperature levels should be maintained to ensure employee comfort and well-being.”

8. The physical office layout

Open-plan offices have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they can promote collaboration and communication among employees. However, open-plan offices can also be noisy and distracting, leading to decreased productivity and increased stress levels.

“To maximize the benefits of open-plan offices, employers should provide quiet work areas and private meeting rooms to ensure that employees can work effectively without distractions,” the article says.

PDRCorp.com, which helps clients navigate the evolution of how people engage and experience space gives these additional tips:

9: A variety of workspace settings

Individuals with perceived choice and control over their environment are less likely to be negatively impacted by environmental stressors, such as noise and crowding. Organisations can provide employees this choice and control by supplying a variety of work settings – ranging from enclosed, quiet focus rooms to open, high-energy collaborative spaces, and allowing individuals to choose where and how they work.

“This allows each individual to regulate when and how they are exposed to external stimuli, such as noise and interactions with colleagues, to best support their well-being. The variety of work settings should provide a range of sensory stimulation and technology levels.

“Quiet or meditation rooms are highly recommended as a space to support mindfulness practice, which has been shown to decrease stress and anxiety and increase focus and memory.”

10. Access to nature

In addition to ensuring natural light and bringing plants into the workplace, companies can also opt for offices located near parks or green space, and allow employees access to those spaces.

“Exposure to both direct and indirect natural light has shown to reduce depressed mood. Workplaces can support this by prioritising the location of individual work areas near large windows.”