Angus Pearce holds the position of Health, Safety & Sustainability Manager here at PSS. In this role, he is responsible for developing PSS training courses specifically tailored to the areas of his expertise. He has shared some of his expertise and experience in setting up training for our team around wellbeing:
During the development phase of our CPD accredited course, “Ensuring Wellbeing Effectively,” I conducted extensive research. This research involved reviewing various sources of advice, including employee assistance programs, professional blogs, corporate guidelines and relevant literature, plus drawing on previously received training. These sources covered a wide range of topics related to maintaining wellbeing and taking care of our mental health.
Among the diverse subjects explored, one common theme emerged consistently: the importance of routine, diet, sleep, and exercise. While the specific recommendations varied depending on the subject matter, these four elements were consistently highlighted as essential factors in promoting overall wellbeing and mental health.
Personal management of wellbeing
One method of managing wellbeing that is extensively researched is ‘wellness’, defined by the Oxford Dictionary as ‘The state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal’. However, wellness encompasses more than just physical health and commonly recognised models of wellness usually include at least six dimensions; Physical – Mental – Spiritual – Emotional – Social – Environmental. Numerous methods are advised for improving wellness include breathing techniques for mindfulness and addressing stress through nutrition, although the general theme I found was the notion that a healthy body contributes to a healthy mind. Advice emphasises making simple daily changes such as taking stairs, going for lunch break walks, evening strolls, and taking regular desk breaks. These seemingly small habit changes can have a big positive impact on overall wellbeing.
Managing stress was identified as another crucial factor in ensuring wellbeing. Professionals recommend building resilience through lifestyle changes, such as incorporating regular exercise to boost mood through the release of endorphins and maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated to prevent insulin dips and dehydration, which can contribute to stress levels. Additionally, getting good quality sleep was deemed essential.
It was also suggested that individuals should communicate openly with their employers if they feel overwhelmed by excessive pressure. Seeking support and sharing concerns can be instrumental in addressing stress effectively. If stress becomes overwhelming, it is crucial to reach out and speak to someone who can provide assistance and guidance.
Organisational management of wellbeing
There are many other external factors which significantly influence wellbeing with one key factor being your job. Employers play a vital role in shaping how we feel and can go beyond meeting basic expectations. Personally, I feel very privileged to work for a company such as PSS, where the culture prioritises the wellbeing of its people. PSS offers various supportive measures and initiatives to ensure the wellbeing of our teams, which many organisations could also adopt. These include providing wellbeing training, implementing mental health first aid programs, offering an employee assistance program, establishing a volunteering policy, being recognised as a Living Wage Foundation service provider and many other supportive initiatives designed to benefit team members.
The commitment to such measures demonstrates PSS’s dedication to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for all its employees.
Please note that the blog above is related to personal research that Angus has undertaken and his opinions on managing wellbeing. Professional advice should always be used where possible.