Introducing mental health activities to the workplace is crucial for fostering a supportive and healthy environment for employees. Research consistently demonstrates that investing in mental health initiatives has numerous benefits, including increased productivity, higher job satisfaction, and reduced absenteeism.

For instance, a study by the World Health Organization found that for every $1 invested in treatment for common mental health disorders, there is a return of $4 in improved health and productivity. Underscoring the significant financial advantages of prioritizing mental health in the workplace, this study is one of many that workplaces worldwide look towards as they shift to a more mindful and happier work-life balance.

By integrating mental health activities into the workplace, companies demonstrate a commitment to the holistic well-being of their employees, ultimately resulting in a more resilient workforce. 

Here are 52 activities that will improve employee wellness and mental health in the workplace.

Prioritize mindfulness in the workplace 

Mindfulness is essential for good mental health. Employees can respond to challenges with clarity and composure by staying present in the moment. Mindfulness fosters resilience, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness, leading to positive relationships and communication.

Here are some ways employers can integrate mindfulness into their employees' daily lives. 

​​Daily mindfulness sessions 

Take a few minutes each morning or afternoon to gather employees for mindfulness exercises like breathing exercises. Mindfulness sessions can focus on meditation and breathing to reduce stress, increase productivity, and promote relaxation. For remote or hybrid teams, let employees have breaks to do these exercises throughout the day. 

Virtual mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programs

Implementing MBSR programs, which include mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga, can reduce stress, improve resilience, and enhance overall well-being among employees. Set up weekly yoga sessions or guided meditations over Zoom at the end of a long week or as part of a wellness initiative in employee health benefits. 

Gratitude journaling

Encouraging employees to write down three things they're grateful for daily can foster a positive mindset, strengthen self-awareness, and promote overall happiness and well-being. Expressing gratitude is one of the central mental-health awareness activities experts recommend to reduce stress and positive thinking. If employees are remote, leadership should consider sending workers a journal of their choice to fill out as they please. 

Mindfulness apps

Providing access to mindfulness apps with guided meditations and stress-reduction exercises allows employees to incorporate mindfulness practices into their daily routines, benefiting their mental well-being. Calm and Headspace are some of the more popular apps employees provide in comprehensive wellness packages. 

On-site meditation sessions

Bringing in meditation instructors to lead guided meditation sessions provides employees a structured opportunity to relax, recharge, and cultivate mindfulness, promoting mental clarity and resilience. Meditation sessions can also be part of on-site company retreats that focus on bonding and boosting emotional intelligence, bringing a sense of balance when gathering outside the workplace. 

Implementing mindfulness breaks

Incorporating short breaks into meetings or workdays is an easy and effective well-being activity. Allowing employees to pause, refocus, and recharge will enhance mindfulness and reduce stress.

Boost mental health with more work-life balance options

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for mental health. It helps prevent burnout and stress and promotes overall well-being. Balancing work and personal life allows individuals to recharge and avoid exhaustion and emotional fatigue. Insufficient time for relaxation, hobbies, and social activities increases stress levels and can lead to mental health issues.

Here are some mental health activities that help build a culture of work-life balance. 

Flexible work arrangements

One of the main things many employees look for in a job these days is flexibility in work hours. Even if a company has returned to the office, many organizations offer remote work options to support work-life balance. Remote days let employees organize their day based on what works for them, such as having the opportunity to run errands or spend more time with family. 

Zoom work-life balance workshops

Online workshops on improving work-life balance and mental health through stress management or self-care strategies help increase awareness, reduce stigma, and equip employees with tools to support their well-being. Working with a third-party mental health organization or inviting experts to the workplace to teach employees how to care for their mental health is a great way to springboard this activity.

Wellness half-days

Implementing half-day wellness provides employees additional time to rest, recharge, and focus on self-care. These days off can be offered periodically throughout the year, allowing employees to take a break from work responsibilities and dedicate time to activities that promote their mental health and overall well-being.

Employee assistance programs (EAPs)

Many employers now offer confidential counseling services through their healthcare plans to ensure employees care for their mental health in and outside of work. EAPs provide employees with support for personal or work-related challenges, helping to address mental health issues and reduce stress.

Virtual wellness challenges

Perfect for remote and hybrid teams, virtual wellness challenges allow employees of all kinds to participate from home. Examples include step challenges, hydration challenges, or daily gratitude challenges. Utilize online platforms or apps to track progress and foster friendly competition among participants. Virtual wellness challenges encourage employees to adopt healthy habits, reduce stress, and enhance their work-life balance, regardless of location.

Employers who prioritize work-life balance create a positive culture where employees feel valued. Promoting work-life balance reduces absenteeism, turnover rates, and healthcare costs. Ultimately, prioritizing work-life balance benefits employees and employers by creating a healthier, more sustainable work environment.

Get creative to enhance well-being at work 

Engaging in creative activities stimulates the mind and promotes cognitive flexibility, which can help alleviate stress and improve overall well-being. Fostering creativity in the workplace encourages openness, experimentation, and collaboration, fostering strong relationships and a sense of belonging among employees. By promoting creativity, individuals experience greater autonomy and empowerment, boosting self-esteem and confidence. 

Here are some creative mental health activities that can be easily implemented in the workplace: 

Creative expression sessions

As part of a company wellness initiative, offering opportunities for employees to engage in creative activities like painting, crafting, or writing can serve as a therapeutic outlet for emotions, reduce stress, and enhance mood. Setting aside a day each month, like a half day on Friday or even a mid-week pause, to craft and create together is an effective way to reduce stress and boost wellness in the workplace. 

Encouraging hobbies

Supporting employees' pursuit of hobbies or interests outside of work promotes work-life balance, reduces stress, and improves overall satisfaction and well-being. Leadership can encourage employees to form hobby clubs based on shared interests such as photography, cooking, or gardening, allotting time for employees to get together at dedicated meeting times or spaces for club activities giving them the chance to connect with others who share their hobbies.

Art therapy workshops

Get creative by hosting art therapy workshops. These workshops allow employees to express themselves creatively through various art forms, such as painting, drawing, or sculpting. They provide a therapeutic outlet for employees to express their emotions, reduce stress, and enhance mental well-being. Participants can explore their creativity in a supportive environment, fostering self-discovery and relaxation.

Storytelling circles

Talking and sharing stories is a surefire way to get employees to tap into their creative and communicative side. Storytelling circles let employees share personal stories, anecdotes, or experiences related to a specific theme or topic. Sharing stories promotes a sense of belonging, validates individual experiences, and strengthens interpersonal relationships, ultimately contributing to improved mental health in the workplace.

Improv comedy sessions

Arrange improv comedy sessions facilitated by professional instructors or team members with improv experience to promote spontaneity, creativity, and collaboration in the workplace. Engaging in improv comedy encourages employees to step out of their comfort zones, build confidence, and develop resilience, all of which are beneficial for mental health.

Creative writing workshops

Organize creative writing workshops where employees can explore creativity through writing prompts, storytelling exercises, or journaling activities. Writing is a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions, gaining insights, and fostering self-reflection. These workshops provide a safe space for employees to express themselves, boost their confidence, and enhance their mental well-being through the power of storytelling.

Music jam sessions

Attend an open mic with the whole team or organize a Zoom music jam session where employees can play instruments, sing, or enjoy music together. Music can uplift spirits, evoke emotions, and promote relaxation. Jam sessions provide a creative outlet for self-expression, stress reduction, and social connection, fostering employees' sense of community and well-being.

Ultimately, encouraging creativity in the workplace enhances mental health while fostering a dynamic and innovative organizational culture that values collaboration and continuous improvement.

Focus on physical health for more well-being in the workplace

Physical well-being is vital for mental health. Helping employees achieve a routine that allows them to pay attention to physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate rest impacts mental health will make them much more productive and happy in the workplace. 

Here are some ways employers can create environments supporting holistic health so employees can thrive mentally and physically.

Providing access to nature

For most companies, giving employees access to nature will mean planning an off-site retreat that incorporates hiking or a day at the beach, which is excellent if you have the time and resources. For those who have limited resources, try and have regular outings at a local park or outdoor restaurant. Access to nature is an easy and natural way to boost happiness in the workplace. 

Workplace mindful yoga classes

Making mindful workouts a priority with yoga classes is a great way to provide employees with dedicated time to de-stress, stretch their bodies, and focus on mindfulness. Hosting courses in the morning before the day starts, whether in the office or over Zoom, is a great way to set a positive tone for the day. Consider a practice accessible to all, like gentle yoga poses, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques, to promote relaxation and work-life balance.

Lunchtime walking groups

Organizing lunchtime walks allows employees to get fresh air, stretch their legs, and recharge, improving mood, reducing stress, and boosting physical health for remote and hybrid organizations. Planning a team retreat centered on walking, hiking, and outdoor activities is the perfect way to encourage low-impact movement that reduces stress and boosts mood. 

Encouraging breaks

With mindfulness sessions and snack breaks, employees are encouraged to take regular breaks throughout the day, which promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances focus and productivity when they return to work. Another way to ensure that employees are at their desks only during the day is to have an office lunch once or twice a week at a nearby cafe or park, ensuring employees are mindful of overworking throughout the day. 

Desk stretching routines

Simple desk stretches throughout the workday can alleviate muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce stress levels, contributing to better mental and physical well-being. For remote teams, allocate funds for a wellness budget, where work-from-home employees can invest in a yoga mat or stretch bands to do these exercises at home. 

Ergonomic assessments

Conducting ergonomic assessments and providing ergonomic equipment ensures employees' physical comfort and reduces the risk of musculoskeletal issues, contributing to overall well-being. For remote employees, companies can provide a budget for walking pads and exercise equipment they can use during the day while taking a break. 

Encouraging physical activity outside of work

Consider offering a gym membership or a monthly wellness budget for employees to engage in physical activity. Additionally, workplace fitness challenges or exercise classes improve mood, reduce stress, and support overall physical and mental well-being. 

Healthy afternoon snacks

Providing nutritious snacks like fruits, nuts, and yogurt promotes good nutrition, stabilizes energy levels, and supports overall well-being by fueling the body and mind. Make snack time a wellness activity, encouraging employees to take a mid-morning or afternoon break to have a snack and enjoy some low-pressure team bonding.

Outdoor team building activities

Organize outdoor team building activities such as hiking, picnics, or sports tournaments to ensure balanced stress levels. Spending time outdoors and engaging in recreational activities strengthens team bonds, reduces work-related stress, and promotes a healthy work-life balance.

Overall, physical activity releases endorphins that regulate mood, reduce stress, and alleviate anxiety and depression, promoting better sleep quality, cognitive function, and emotional regulation, all of which are vital to being present and able to work well.  

Encourage employees to educate themselves on their mental health

Educating employees about mental health benefits is crucial for creating a supportive work environment. It increases awareness of mental health issues and reduces stigma. Helping workers understand what support systems are available helps promote early intervention and prevention of mental health issues. 

Here are some educational mental-health-boosting activities for the workplace: 

Work-life balance workshops 

Organize workshops explicitly focused on work-life balance. These workshops can cover time management, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Providing employees with practical strategies and tools to balance their professional and personal lives helps reduce burnout and promotes overall mental well-being.

Encouraging self-care practices

Encouraging employees to prioritize self-care practices such as adequate sleep, healthy eating, and regular exercise supports overall well-being and resilience in the workplace. Providing educational materials that can be accessed online or through wellness apps is a great way to encourage employees to stay educated on how to best care for themselves. 

Mental health resource libraries

Establishing resource libraries with books, articles, and online resources on mental health topics empowers employees to access information and support for their well-being. The library should be digital so it’s easily accessible to all remote, hybrid, or in-person teams. Resources may address issues such as stress management, anxiety, depression, self-care practices, coping strategies, mindfulness techniques, and accessing professional support. 

Survey for mental health resources

While a robust wellness program depends on budget and company size, leadership should always ensure they expand their offerings to keep employees happy and comfortable. Send out surveys to employees and ask what mental health resources, such as counseling, are available. Leadership should respect employees' privacy and make space for private meetings should any team member need a bit of extra. 

Stress management workshops

Workshops on stress management techniques, such as time management or relaxation strategies, equip employees with tools to cope with stress and improve their well-being effectively. Leadership can work with outside wellness experts to organize workshops on best practices in general stress reduction, which is valuable for well-being in and out of work. 

Zoom skill development opportunities

Creating opportunities for skill development and career growth fosters a sense of purpose and achievement, which supports employee engagement, satisfaction, and overall well-being. With outside experts, create a Zoom curriculum of workshops for employees based on skills needed to enhance their roles.

Mental health screenings

Voluntary mental health screenings allow employees to assess their mental well-being, identify potential issues early on, and access appropriate support or resources. Screenings are typically conducted through standardized questionnaires or assessments administered by trained professionals or through self-assessment tools that employees can complete independently. Companies can use screening to determine better what wellness benefits are required in the workplace. 

Providing access to counseling services on-site

Confidential counseling services through an EAP and access to on-site counseling during stressful workplace periods can give employees a safety net to deal with particularly stressful periods. Having a network of professional support for managing mental health concerns and stressors is helpful to workers and management, as they need to ensure they are balanced. 

Encouraging boundary-setting

Boundaries are a big topic these days, especially in the workplace! Encouraging employees to set boundaries around work hours and communication helps prevent burnout, promotes work-life balance, and supports overall mental well-being.

Providing mental health training for managers

Good mental health starts at the top, so managers should always be trained to recognize signs of mental health issues. Managers can offer support, and promoting a healthy work environment creates a supportive culture prioritizing employee wellness programs.

Financial wellness resources

Offering resources and workshops on financial wellness topics, such as budgeting or retirement planning, reduces financial stress and supports overall mental well-being among employees. Dedicate a day to seminars, questions, and information that will help employees gain control of their finances, including access to financial planners for investment tips and how to handle money to reduce stress and increase a sense of control and well-being. 

Investing in mental health education empowers employees to prioritize their well-being and creates a workplace culture that values mental health.

Strive for work-life balance to enhance employee mental well-being

Achieving work-life balance is crucial for maintaining mental health in the workplace. When individuals can allocate time and energy to team building activities outside of work, they experience greater fulfillment and satisfaction. A healthy work-life balance enables employees to recharge and rejuvenate, improving their resilience and ability to cope with workplace stressors. 

Here are some activities and games to help implement work-life balance.

Offer relaxation tools

Provide employees with access to relaxation tools they can take home to ensure they remain relaxed in and out of work. Provide a budget for meditation apps or wellness packages with massage coupons and essential oils that support stress management, promote relaxation, and enhance overall mental well-being.

Promoting work-life balance options

Flexible work schedules or remote work options reduce stress, provide better work-life balance, support mental well-being, and improve overall job satisfaction. Services, support groups, or online forums would be helpful for them, making them feel seen and valued. 

Promote positive communication

You can't have a happy workplace without good communication! Promoting positive and open communication fosters trust, reduces conflicts, and supports mental well-being by creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. To boost communication, try wellness games like Wellness Bingo or Trivia, which focus on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. Teams can host quiz sessions during lunch breaks or team building activities to engage employees while having fun.

Mental health days

Allowing employees to take occasional mental health days when needed acknowledges the importance of mental well-being, reduces burnout, and supports overall work satisfaction. Many companies allow employees mental health days once a month or quarter, ensuring they can have a tie for themselves. 

Offer stress-relief resources for the office

Companies can provide stress-relief goodie bags for employees as part of a comprehensive wellness initiative; adding small but thoughtful gifts like stress balls, fidget toys, or noise-canceling headphones allows employees to manage stress and anxiety, promoting mental well-being and focus.

Set up mindfulness reminders

Whether online or in the office, setting up a calendar with daily mindfulness reminders as part of a comprehensive work-life balance plan is a small but effective step in the right direction. Whether on a calendar or written down on a break-room whiteboard, prompts for employees to grab a glass of water, take deep breaths, or check in with emotions throughout the workday help employees stay present, reduce stress, and enhance well-being.

Encouraging work-life balance promotes a positive organizational culture, leading to higher job satisfaction, motivation, and loyalty among staff members. Promoting work-life balance can also positively affect productivity, creativity, and overall job performance. Ultimately, investing in work-life balance benefits both employees and employers by creating a healthier, more sustainable work environment.

Promote social activities for mental health benefits

Social activities are essential for good mental health and well-being in the workplace. Engaging in social interactions with colleagues fosters connection, belonging, and camaraderie. Building positive relationships enhances mental well-being and job satisfaction, promoting a positive culture based on relationship building. 

Here are some simple and practical social activities that center mental health in the workplace. 

Encouraging peer recognition

Encouraging peer recognition and appreciation allows employees to acknowledge and celebrate each other's contributions, fostering a positive and supportive work culture that enhances mental well-being. To promote peer support in the workplace, set up an office award ceremony over Zoom or in person and have coworkers award one another for their achievements. 

Stress management workshops for the whole team

Get the entire team together for a day of workshops on stress management techniques, such as time management or relaxation strategies. Equip employees with tools to cope with stress and improve their well-being effectively. Encourage employees to work together by playing team building games focusing on stress management. 

Establishing peer support networks

These networks are a great way to encourage team bonding. They allow employees to connect with colleagues for mutual support, encouragement, and sharing of experiences, promoting mental health and resilience. Leadership should provide support networks with the necessary resources and information about mental health resources, counseling services, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and community support services. 

Fostering a supportive culture

By implementing regular chats over video calls or lunch in the office, a company can encourage a supportive and inclusive culture where employees feel valued, respected, and supported by their colleagues. Consider regular Zoom Icebreaker games or company retreats to promote mental well-being, reduce stress, and enhance overall job satisfaction.

Hosting wellness events for the whole team

Dedicating a day to wellness events, such as health fairs or fitness challenges, promotes employee well-being, builds camaraderie, and reinforces a workplace health and wellness culture. Attend these events as a group, or set up a daily virtual event for remote employees over Zoom to ensure employees strike the right balance between work and relaxation. 

Team building activities

Organizing team building exercises fosters camaraderie, strengthens relationships, and promotes a supportive work environment, contributing to overall employee well-being. Whether that means organizing a company-wide scavenger hunt or playing board games after work, planning activities where coworkers can play and converse is a great way to boost well-being in the workplace.

Encouraging social connections

Facilitating opportunities for social interaction, such as team lunches or coffee breaks, fosters community reduces isolation, and promotes mental health and belonging. For a more structured event, consider hosting an afternoon of connection-building activities, including icebreaker exercises and games that unite employees. 

Remote team building activities

Virtual team building activities over Zoom promote social connection and camaraderie among remote employees. Activities could include virtual escape rooms, online trivia games, or virtual coffee breaks where team members can chat and bond informally. Strengthening relationships and fostering community among remote teams contributes to improved morale, mental wellness, and work-life balance.

Social activities are significant stress buffers, providing fun, laughter, and relaxation moments. Prioritizing social connections creates a supportive and inclusive environment where employees thrive personally and professionally.

Harness the power of getting together to boost wellness in the workplace

In the digital era, remote work has become common, often blurring work-life boundaries. Employers need to prioritize mental health and team connection to ensure a positive work culture and employee well-being. Initiatives like mindfulness sessions and virtual fitness classes help, but lack the depth of in-person interactions.

At Surf Office, with over 700+ retreat experiences in the last 10 years, we specialize in designing off-site retreats that allow teams to take a break from their usual routine and strengthen their relationships in a new setting. Incorporating team building retreats, like those we offer, can enhance camaraderie, sense of belonging, and productivity.

Reach out to us for assistance with your team building retreat logistics.