Prioritizing Mental Health in Hybrid Work: Building Connection and Cohesion
The shift to hybrid and remote work has brought flexibility for many, but also new challenges - particularly around mental health and the potential for isolation.
Feelings of isolation and diminished team cohesion can occur when colleagues rarely have real, in person communication. To foster well-being and maintain strong teams, employers must prioritize practices that support both remote and in-person engagement – helping to put their people in positions where they are able to strengthen personal relationships with people at work.
Why Mental Health Matters in Hybrid Work
Remote work affects different people in different ways. For some, remote work enhances productivity and balance, but others may experience isolation and feelings of disconnection without regular, meaningful human contact. Extended periods without in-person interaction can lead to loneliness – even when someone may not realise it, impacting morale and productivity. HR teams must recognize these varied needs and create policies that support peoples well-being wherever they work.
Strategies for Connection and Inclusion
Regular Check-Ins: Schedule frequent one-on-one and team meetings via video to ensure employees feel supported and connected. These touchpoints should go beyond work discussions to foster trust and connection. Managers should be encouraged to avoid missing check-ins.
Accessible Meetups: Make it easy for teammates to meet both online and in person. This flexibility supports natural relationship-building, reducing feelings of isolation.
Recognition and Appreciation: Regularly celebrate achievements, whether through shout-outs in meetings or virtual recognition programs, reinforcing employees' sense of value and team belonging.
Social Events and Cohesion: Organize virtual social events and in-person meetups to strengthen bonds. This helps replicate the "water cooler" moments crucial for team cohesion.
Personalized and Inclusive Support
A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work when it comes to workplace provisioning and rules. HR teams should consider varied employee needs, from those who thrive remotely to those who need more in person interaction, or may not be equipped to work remotely. Offering mental health resources like counseling, wellness days, and mentorship programs can help support individual well-being and people should be encouraged to participate.
Technology and Human Connection
Use technology not just for work productivity but also to maintain genuine human connection. Encourage video calls over text for clearer communication and integrate platforms that support informal interactions to help teams feel present and connected. It’s easy to misinterpret a written message, or read your own mood into it. That’s far harder to do with an live interaction.
Conclusion
Companies that prioritize easy and meaningful connections, both online and in person, and tailor their support strategies foster a healthy, cohesive culture. By focusing on mental health and being mindful of different people's needs, organizations can create environments where all people feel valued and engaged, no matter where they work.
