Maintaining a good work-life balance is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. It can help reduce stress levels and prevent burnout.
Why working too much is bad for your mental health
If you’re always working, you’re not giving your mind a chance to rest and recover. When we don’t take breaks, our bodies never have a chance to relax and repair themselves. This can lead to physical health problems like insomnia, headaches, and stomach problems.
Physical and mental exhaustion can leave you feeling less productive while you’re at work because your decision-making ability is affected and you’re more susceptible to making mistakes. But more importantly, a lack of work-life balance can negatively impact your happiness and sense of fulfilment. There’s nothing wrong with loving your job, but when you’re constantly working, you miss out on important aspects of life like family time, friends, and hobbies.
Having a personal life is important for your mental health, and it can actually make you better at your job. When you have hobbies and interests outside of work, you’re more likely to feel energetic and motivated when you’re at work.
How to Achieve Work-Life Balance
There are many things you can do to achieve a healthy work-life balance, which can not only help you be more productive at work but also help reduce your stress and anxiety.
Set boundaries between work and the rest of your life
When you’re at work, focus on work. When you’re at home, focus on your personal life. This will help you relax and recharge when you’re not working.
Set aside personal time for yourself every day
Dedicate some time each day to do something that makes you happy. This could be reading, going for a walk, or spending time with friends or family.
Don’t try to do it all
Be realistic about what you can achieve at work, and ask for help if you need it. This will help you to avoid feeling overwhelmed and can help reduce the amount of overtime you may be required to do.
Take breaks during the day
Make sure you’re taking regular breaks throughout the day to eat, rest and relax.
Talk to someone if you’re not ok
It’s okay to reach out if you’re struggling to cope. If you’re finding it difficult to manage your stress levels or achieve a work-life balance – or just struggling in general – talk to someone. You can chat to a mate you trust, or get professional help from a mental health expert.
Know when it’s time to change careers
If you’re constantly working overtime to pay the bills, or if the type of work you do is too demanding, it’s never too late to change careers. Choosing a career that you’re more passionate about, that offers better pay, or that’s a better fit for your skills, is going to make achieving work-life balance a lot easier.
Work-life balance is important for our mental health. By taking steps to achieve it, we can improve our well-being and prevent burnout. Remember, if you’re struggling to cope, reach out for help from a mental health professional.
