Supporting your team over the holiday break

As the end of the year approaches, so does the holiday period. For many, this is a time to relax, spend time with family and prepare for the upcoming year. But for some people, this time of year is anything but festive. Instead, it can be a time of heightened stress, financial strain, or a painful reminder of loss and loneliness. For employers, understanding these realities and acknowledging the human side of work is more important now than ever.

Employee wellbeing is not a seasonal obligation; it’s a year-round responsibility. So, as we approach the end of another year, it’s important to reflect on how we can better support our teams.

How work and life overlap

We all talk a lot about work-life balance, but it’s crucial to understand that work and personal wellbeing are deeply interconnected. The stresses employees face outside of work don’t vanish when they walk into the office. Likewise, work-related pressures can exacerbate personal struggles, especially during the holiday season.

Mental health does not stop at the office or crib room door. It travels with us, impacting our focus, our productivity, and our overall wellbeing. For this reason, employers have a significant role to play in recognising and addressing this overlap. This is about more than just wellbeing in the workplace.

The hidden challenges of the holiday season

We often hear about the joy of the holidays, but there’s a side to this time that’s rarely discussed: the stress and emotional toll it can take.

Increased stress and pressure

Between finishing up projects, planning holiday travel or simply facing endless to-do lists, stress levels can soar. Right now, employees are facing pressure from all facets of their lives, not just the workplace.

Financial concerns

The strain of gift-giving, social events and holiday travel is real. For people already struggling, this can feel like a never-ending drain on resources and further reinforce feelings of anxiety or shame.

Loneliness and isolation

The reality is that not everyone has a circle of loved ones to spend the holidays with. The season’s emphasis on family and connection can magnify feelings of isolation for those who may be estranged from family or grieving lost loved ones.

What you can do

Being a great employer and advocate for your team during this period is about more than end-of-year bonuses and Christmas parties. Real support means fostering a work environment that prioritises mental health every day of the year.

Create a supportive culture

A company culture where mental health is openly discussed—and support is accessible—can make all the difference. When employees feel safe sharing their struggles, it creates an environment of trust and compassion.

Employee assistance programs (EAPs)

The benefits of employee assistance programs are clear. Programs like our very own MHM Connect (powered by NewPsych), support your team members and their families when they need it most. Underpinned by a team of clinical psychologists, psychiatrists and therapists, MHM Connect is a key tertiary intervention. Learn more about the service here.

Offer flexibility

Flexible working arrangements can go a long way. Whether it’s remote work options or adjusted hours, giving employees some control over their schedules during the holidays can help them manage personal and professional demands more effectively.

Provide resources

Whether hardcopy or digital, a little information can make all the difference in supporting your team’s wellbeing. Our library of comprehensive support tools have been created with all types of workplaces in mind. From actively supporting others to simply monitoring your own mental health, our resources cover the support pathways and frameworks your team needs. Reach out to learn more.

The benefits of robust mental health support

Investing in mental health initiatives in your workplace isn’t just a compassionate choice, but also a strategic one. Research has demonstrated that when your team feels mentally well and supported, the benefits extend beyond just individual wellbeing. Companies prioritising mental health often see a significant boost in overall productivity, employee retention and workplace morale.

In terms of hard figures, a 2017 UTS study found that workplaces could see up to a 400% return on every dollar spent on mental health. Additionally, the University of Oxford found in 2019 that happy and healthy workers are up to 13% more productive. 

Putting a bow on it

As we close out the year it’s important to remember that investing in the mental health of our employees isn’t just a moral obligation, but something that leaves us all better off. Healthy, supported employees are more engaged, productive, and loyal.  

The holidays can be tough, but together, we can make them a little bit easier for everyone.

Support your team’s mental health over the holidays.

We have prepared a number of resources to be distributed to your team – please fill out the form below to access them.