Feeling blue? Have a brew and take care of your wellbeing at work
Today on Brew Monday we speak to Demelza’s HR Training and Wellbeing Officer to see what you can do on this day and every day to look after your mental health and wellbeing at work.
‘Brew Monday’ was launched in response to ‘Blue Monday,’ which is often considered the most depressing day of the year. This day provides the opportunity to take some time out to have a cup of tea/coffee and reflect on our connections and how we can all look to improve our emotional wellbeing.
HR Training and Wellbeing Officer Amalia supports staff at Demelza and regularly organises events that encourage employees to take some time away from their desk and have a break.
“Wellbeing is important to Demelza because we want everyone to bring their whole self to work, which is a phrase we use regularly. We want everyone to feel comfortable and safe coming to work, and that is not possible if staff do not feel supported in what they are going through, whether it’s work related or in their personal life.
“Everyone is really passionate [at Demelza] about what they do, and they want to do their best because they really care about the cause, but it’s important to remember to look after and put yourself first as well,” said Amalia.
We asked Amalia for her top three tips for taking care of wellbeing at work and what advice she would give to staff on Brew Monday…
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“Small acts of self-care: Recognising and making those conscious efforts to look after and prioritise yourself. It might just be putting on some hand cream or going for a walk because you need a bit of fresh air of exercise.
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“Making connections: I think making connections is really important. Having that sense of belonging and community is key. When you take the time out to talk to your colleagues it helps to bring your base levels back to normal and also improves your interpersonal connection skills.
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“Getting out: Going for a walk and getting out in nature, we all get a little bit bogged down and focused on what we are doing, so having those breaks is good for your wellbeing and mental health.
“On Brew Monday I would encourage people to reach out to a colleague, maybe someone you have not spoken to in a while to see how they are doing. I think go for a short walk somewhere or have a coffee break with someone. If you are remote working, which we have a lot of here at Demelza, maybe have a phone call with someone while you are having a coffee break.
“Brew Monday for me is about setting those precedents and setting a routine of looking after yourself and keeping in touch with others in your team.”
"Everyone is really passionate [at Demelza] about what they do, and they want to do their best because they really care about the cause, but it’s important to remember to look after and put yourself first as well."
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