Seven ways to prioritise your mental wellbeing at work

UK employees work an average of 42 hours per week – the highest in Europe. Because work takes up so much of our time, it can inevitably sap a lot of our mental energy, too, so it’s important to find ways of maintaining a good work−life balance.

Organisations that provide managers with mental-health training report a 30% reduction in mental-health-related absences; and 52% of employees say they feel more engaged and productive when their organisation offers such resources. Companies encouraging open communication and mental-health awareness see a 20% increase in employee retention rates (Mental Health First Aid England). This shows it’s possible to overcome the challenges that see 16.3 million working days lost through stress, anxiety or depression (Health and Safety Executive 2023/24), with 21% needing to take time off work in 2024 to (Mental Health UK – Burnout Report 2025).

Other positive news is that taking a proactive approach to tackling common workplace stressors can minimise work’s impact on our mental wellbeing. Here are seven top tips for keeping a healthy mind.

1. Managing several tasks at once? Be proactive rather than reactive

If you feel overwhelmed by what you have to do, try breaking down projects into more manageable tasks each day. This will help you prioritise what you can, and can’t, get done, enabling you to concentrate on aspects of projects allocated to you, helping you feel you’ve regained control.

2. Constantly distracted? Keep interruptions to a minimum

This might feel difficult when faced with a stream of e-mails, online messages, phone calls and colleague check-ins. While you can’t control when people contact you, you can decide when you respond to them. For example, reply to ad-hoc requests at designated points in your working day; and arrange a quick call to discuss something rather than getting involved in long e-mail chains.

3. Frustrated you’re not getting anywhere? Schedule your day for productivity

Concentrating on achieving goals by completing tasks to the required standard, rather than targeting perfection, helps to relieve unnecessary stress. Spending 15 minutes at the start of each day to identify what you intend to get done will help you prioritise efficiency, and minimise any overtime.

4. Forgetting about physical wellbeing? Focus on eating well and a good night’s sleep

Prioritising physical wellbeing when work is full on can feel challenging, but it’s well worth it. Try eating small, healthy meals that are low in sugar and high in protein to provide consistent energy levels, helping maintain concentration and focus. If work-related thoughts make sleep difficult, write a list of them before bed and consciously decide to leave them there, turning to relaxation exercises such as focused breathing instead. Learning mindfulness techniques can help with this.

5. Never away from your workstation or desk? Reclaim your lunch break

Make sure you step away from where you work, and your computer, for a change of scene. If you can, head outdoors for some fresh air, a bit of movement and a fresh perspective. Learn something new or expand your skillset – there are plenty of free online courses to help you achieve this.

6. Feeling like all you do is work? Recalibrate your work−life balance

Sometimes we all have to work longer hours, but aim to make this the exception, not a regular occurrence. Creating clear boundaries between work and personal time helps. If you’re commuting, use your journey to wind down, perhaps walking or cycling part of the journey, or doing something completely different, such as reading a book or listening to music as you head home.

If you’re working at home, designate a specific part of your living space for working, and at the end of the working day, leave work there. And if it gets too much, help is out there.

7. Don’t know where to turn? Ask for assistance

Whether it’s to do with work, something personal, or something else entirely, anyone can face unexpected challenges. Acknowledging that you need to find someone to talk to, and that you’re seeking help and advice, is not a sign of weakness, but a positive step forward that takes courage and strength.

The NHS’s Every Mind Matters shares simple ways to ease stress and anxiety, and help lift your mood. Mental Health UK has a whole collection of easily-accessible resources, including ones focused on workplace burnout.

Everyone working in publishing, as well as print, paper, packaging, graphics and the allied trades, is eligible for support from the Printing Charity. It offers a free, confidential employee helpline, providing emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Visit The Printing Charity for more information on launching the helpline in your organisation, and to find out more about other support such as financial assistance and careers and development grants for young people. Remember, we’re here for you.

Liz Ross Martyn is Director of Marketing & Engagement at The Printing Charity. Follow her on LinkedIn.