[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]The festive period can be fun, but it\u2019s usually one of the most demanding phases of the year, both in and out of the workplace. Workloads may intensify just as the festive season gets busy \u2013 all whilst trying to fit a month\u2019s work into 3.5 weeks. For many employees, wellbeing habits slip just when they need them most.<\/p>\n
Workplace wellness support at this time of year isn\u2019t about policing people\u2019s behaviour at the annual Christmas do. It\u2019s about knowing how to equip employees with options, encouraging people to make healthier choices, reducing stress and building a culture where people feel able to prioritise their wellbeing.<\/p>\n
Whether your workplace closes for Christmas or your colleagues work shifts, the run-up to Christmas and the period between Christmas and New Year present a unique mix of wellbeing pressures across your organisation.<\/p>\n
Colder weather, social plans, and school holidays can make it harder for your colleagues to maintain the fitness routines, sleep, and nutrition habits that come easier in summer months.<\/p>\n
Many people will juggle end-of-year performance cycles, family commitments, and financial pressures at this time of year, whether they\u2019re running a department or new to their first job.<\/p>\n
Increased work and personal events often lead to the overconsumption of alcohol and sugar, coupled with late nights, resulting in heightened stress precisely when optimal focus and productivity are required.<\/p>\n
Shorter days, bad weather, and packed diaries often mean less exercise even for the committed, which is a major contributor to fatigue and low mood.<\/p>\n
Christmas can be isolating or emotionally difficult, especially for employees living alone or managing grief. And many may not choose to open up about this at work.<\/p>\n
Supporting employees through these challenges is both compassionate and commercially smart, so let\u2019s look at the best ways for business owners and HR professionals to offer support in December \u2013 both in the workplace and when colleagues are at home.<\/p>\n
Even small amounts of flexibility – like compressed hours or remote working days – can significantly reduce stress and help employees balance everything that is competing for their time and energy.<\/p>\n
Workplace festive celebrations have significantly evolved, with many employees now choosing not to consume alcohol. Just as accommodating diverse dietary requirements has become standard practice, it is now second nature to extend the same consideration to non-alcoholic options. Always offer appealing alternatives, and consider substituting alcohol-centric events with team breakfasts, lunch socials, drop-in coffee sessions, or active team-building events. Employees consistently value choice and appreciate inclusive environments free of pressure.<\/p>\n
Even the most committed gym-goer will struggle to stick to their year-round routine as Christmas approaches. The good news is that exercise doesn\u2019t have to be an hour in the gym. Small bursts of activity significantly improve mood and productivity. Encourage colleagues with options like step challenges, lunchtime walking groups, stretch breaks, or prompts to take stairs or short movement breaks<\/p>\n
Colleagues might feel overwhelmed about healthy eating at this time of year. Support them by giving choice, education, and better options. Make sure work kitchens and reception areas aren\u2019t dominated by mince pies every day. Offer healthier options as well as the usual cakes and chocolates. Remind people to stay hydrated, and share simple resources around managing energy dips and healthy meal ideas.<\/p>\n
This time of year can be a real struggle for many, even if they\u2019ve previously enjoyed Christmas. Keep an eye out for the signs of low mood, and make sure team leaders model healthy boundaries, rest, and time off. Reinforce your workplace wellbeing strategies like EAPs, mental health first aiders, quiet spaces, and wellbeing check-ins.<\/p>\n
Good workplace wellness support doesn\u2019t stop when people leave the building. Think about how you can support your colleagues when they\u2019re off work at this time of year.<\/p>\n
Regular physical activity has so many benefits for physical and mental health, but traditional gym memberships don\u2019t work during a season of travel and unpredictable schedules. Make sure your employee wellness benefit includes flexible access to a network of gyms, pools and other fitness facilities. Hussle\u2019s nationwide network is designed to help your employees stay active wherever they are, including over Christmas. <\/p>\n
It\u2019s not your job to police how people spend their free time, but you can arm employees with education, resources, and maybe gentle team challenges for walking, yoga, swimming, meditation, breathwork, and time outdoors. <\/p>\n
Encourage employees to take their annual leave and unplug properly during breaks. Have conversations about use of Slack, emails and other comms so nobody feels beholden to their phone when they\u2019re off. Your colleagues and their families will appreciate it. <\/p>\n
Any workplace wellbeing strategy that works at Christmas will benefit your colleagues all year round if it\u2019s flexible, inclusive, and adapts to changing routines. Employers can support healthier habits by offering:<\/p>\n