Brief Summary
This virtual seminar by Mental Health Authority addresses the importance of taking breaks from work to reignite performance and its impact on mental health. The discussion covers various aspects of breaks, including their definition, effects on performance and mental health, and reasons why people avoid taking them. The facilitators emphasize the necessity of breaks for psychological, emotional, and physical well-being, and provide strategies for managing breaks and workloads effectively. They also discuss organizational activities for building a mental health-friendly culture that supports breaks.
- Taking breaks is essential for mental and physical health, not a luxury.
- Organizations should promote a culture of psychological safety where employees feel comfortable taking breaks.
- Effective management of breaks involves intentional scheduling, setting boundaries, and utilizing relaxation techniques.
Introduction
The seminar begins with an introduction to the topic of taking breaks from work to reignite performance. The host expresses excitement about the discussion and highlights the importance of breaks for mental health and overall performance. The seminar aims to explore what breaks mean in the context of work, how they affect performance, and their impact on mental health, both positively and negatively. The host also introduces the facilitators, Dr. Erica Danfrequa Dist, a consultant clinical psychologist, and Dr. Richmond Aqua, a consultant industrial and organizational psychologist and lecturer.
Defining Breaks and Reasons for Avoiding Them
Dr. Dist provides a detailed explanation of what constitutes a break in the workplace, including daily breaks, annual leave, compassionate leave, and sick leave. She notes that labor regulations mandate breaks, including annual leave of 21 to 25 days. Despite the benefits, many people avoid taking breaks due to various reasons, such as the fear of losing unofficial income, concerns about work being disrupted in their absence, and the perception that leave is a privilege rather than a right. Some employees are denied breaks by their bosses due to deadlines and targets.
Enforcing the Right to Take a Break
Dr. Aqua discusses how employees can enforce their right to take breaks, even when it's not encouraged by management. He references a study in Germany that shows many employees skip breaks due to work pressures. In Ghana, the fear of being seen as unserious or lazy further discourages employees from taking breaks. He emphasizes the importance of employees taking their health into their own hands and making a strong case for why they need a break, viewing it as a necessity rather than a luxury. He also notes that many people use their leave for other work, defeating the purpose of rest and rejuvenation.
Psychological and Emotional Benefits of Taking Breaks
Dr. Dist explains the psychological and emotional benefits of taking breaks. She notes that constant stress impairs cognitive functioning, affecting focus, concentration, memory, and reaction time. Taking breaks rejuvenates the mind, heightens creative thinking, and improves clarity and focus. Emotionally, breaks reduce irritability and anxiety, leading to better interpersonal relationships. She emphasizes that rest is not a sign of weakness but a necessity for maintaining well-being and productivity.
Physical Implications of Not Taking Breaks
Dr. Aqua discusses the physical implications of not taking breaks, referencing studies that show a lack of rest can lead to headaches and a weakened immune system. He explains the effort-recovery principle, which states that the body needs sufficient time to recover from the physical and mental demands of work. Without adequate recovery, individuals may experience prolonged physical and mental disorders, such as musculoskeletal issues, exhaustion, and burnout. He stresses the importance of micro-breaks and short breaks to allow the body to recover and prevent long-term health issues.
Overcoming Guilt and Workplace Stigma
Dr. Dist addresses the guilt and workplace stigma associated with taking breaks. She suggests that organizations should ensure their staff take leave by scheduling it in advance to avoid disrupting workflow. She emphasizes that taking breaks is not a weakness and encourages individuals to prioritize self-care. She advises employees to train and delegate duties to others, ensuring that work continues smoothly in their absence. She also reminds listeners that work will continue regardless, so self-preservation should be a priority.
Managing Breaks and Workload Effectively
Dr. Aqua provides strategies for managing breaks and workload effectively. He advises scheduling breaks intentionally as part of the daily routine and setting reminders to take them. He notes that it's important to focus on mind management rather than just time management, ensuring that one is in a productive state of mind. Dr. Dist adds that even short activities or shifts in gear can help, such as taking short walks or looking at nature. She also emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and practicing mindfulness to manage stress.
Building a Mental Health-Friendly Organizational Culture
Dr. Aqua discusses how to build a mental health-friendly organizational culture. He emphasizes the importance of psychological safety, where vulnerability is accepted and employees feel comfortable discussing their struggles. He also highlights the need to destigmatize mental health issues and create physical spaces that support relaxation. He suggests rewarding quality and innovation rather than just time spent at work and normalizing brief, informal conversations among colleagues.
The Role of Policies in Supporting Mental Health
Dr. Dist discusses the role of policies in shaping an organization's culture to be more mental health-friendly. She notes that policies should promote mental health, protect employees' mental well-being, and prevent stigmatization. She also highlights the importance of employee assistance programs and ensuring anonymity for those seeking support. She emphasizes that policies should be consolidated to ensure everyone is comfortable and feels supported.
Training and Holistic Approaches to Mental Health
The discussion emphasizes the importance of training managers and supervisors to recognize changes in their subordinates and provide appropriate support. It is noted that a holistic approach to policy development, involving input from all members of the organization, is essential. The discussion also addresses specific questions from participants, including the role of maternity leave, the possibility of a three-day weekend, and the need for break incentives.
Addressing Specific Workplace Issues and Questions
The panel addresses various questions and comments from the audience, including the impact of long commutes on mental health, the need for flexible work schedules, and the challenges faced by teachers in the double-track system. They also discuss the importance of empowering employees to assert their rights and the role of unions in advocating for better working conditions.
Strategies for Managing Stress and Seeking Help
Dr. Dist provides specific strategies for managing stress, such as deep breathing exercises, body scanning, and using imagery to create calm. Dr. Aqua emphasizes the importance of help-seeking and encourages managers to be more empathetic and promote mental health discussions. He also highlights the need for self-awareness and recognizing changes in behavior and emotions as signs that help is needed.
Closing Remarks: Rest, Creativity, and Efficiency
In closing, Dr. Dist reiterates that taking breaks is not a privilege but a requirement for maintaining mental and physical health. She encourages listeners to take stock of their lives and incorporate breaks into their routines. Dr. Aqua emphasizes the business case for prioritizing employee recovery, noting that organizations that encourage breaks are more competitive. He urges individuals to be intentional and conscious about taking breaks to prioritize their well-being. The host thanks the facilitators and participants and encourages everyone to fill out the feedback forms.
