11 Mental Health Event Ideas for the Workplace
Mental health is a crucial component of overall well-being, and it's important that we prioritize it not just in our personal lives, but also in our professional lives. With Mental Health Awareness Month just around the corner, it's the perfect time for workplaces to come up with ideas for mental health events to celebrate the occasion.
How do you celebrate Mental Health Day at work?
Here are 11 mental health event ideas for the workplace that are sure to promote positive mental health and wellness:
Meditation and mindfulness workshop
Stress management seminar
Mental Health Awareness Month virtual trivia
Lunch and learn on positive thinking
Group therapy sessions
Healthy eating workshop
Yoga class
Employee Assistance Program information session
Mental health film screening and discussion
Walking group
Mindful coloring session
Meditation and Mindfulness Workshop
Meditation and mindfulness can have a powerful impact on mental health, and a workshop on these practices can be a great way to introduce employees to the benefits of mindfulness. The workshop can include guided meditation, breathing exercises, and other techniques that can help promote calm and relaxation.
Stress Management Seminar
Work can be stressful, and learning how to manage stress effectively can make a big difference in mental health. A stress management seminar can teach employees practical strategies for coping with stress, including mindfulness, exercise, and time management techniques.
Mental Health Awareness Month Virtual Trivia
Hosting a virtual trivia event for Mental Health Awareness Month is a fun and engaging way to promote mental health awareness and de-stigmatize mental health issues in the workplace. Virtual trivia events can be easily hosted on various online platforms and can include mental health topics such as stress management techniques, common mental health disorders, self care, and more. Incorporating interactive elements such as polls and Q&A sessions can also encourage employees to participate and engage with the material.
Minority-owned small business Bar None Games offers a fully themed Mental Health Awareness Month trivia game celebrating mental health. Our educational and fun themed event brings awareness to and aims to reduce stigma around mental health, while also engaging players in competitive fun.
Lunch and Learn on Positive Thinking
A lunch and learn session on positive thinking can be a fun and interactive way to promote positive mental health in the workplace. Activities and exercises that encourage employees to reframe negative thoughts and cultivate a more positive outlook can be incorporated into the session. This type of event also provides a forum for employees to discuss their thoughts and feelings in a supportive and safe environment.
Group Therapy Sessions
Group therapy sessions can provide a safe and supportive space for employees to share their experiences and connect with others who may be going through similar challenges. These sessions can be led by a mental health professional and can cover a range of topics, from anxiety and depression to work-related stress.
Healthy Eating Workshop
Healthy eating habits can have a significant impact on mental health, and a workshop on healthy eating can help employees learn how to fuel their bodies and minds with the right nutrients. The workshop can include tips on meal planning, healthy snacking, and incorporating more fruits and vegetables into their diets.
Yoga Class
A workplace yoga class is a great way to promote positive mental health by providing employees with a gentle and effective form of exercise that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Yoga is a low-impact activity that can be easily adapted to different fitness levels and abilities. Additionally, the practice of yoga emphasizes mindfulness and being present in the moment, which can help employees manage stress and anxiety.
Employee Assistance Program Information Session
Many workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide confidential support and resources for employees who may be struggling with mental health issues. An information session on the EAP can help employees learn about the services available to them and encourage them to seek help when they need it.
Mental Health Film Screening and Discussion
Watching a film that addresses mental health issues can be a powerful way to raise awareness and promote understanding. After the screening, employees can participate in a discussion about the film and the issues it raises.
Walking Group
Walking is a simple and effective way to get exercise and reduce stress, and a workplace walking group can encourage employees to get up and move around during the workday. The group can meet at lunchtime or after work for a leisurely walk around the neighborhood.
Mindful Coloring Session
There’s a reason that adult coloring books are so popular! Coloring has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind, and a mindful coloring session can be a fun and relaxing way to promote positive mental health. The session can include coloring sheets, markers or colored pencils, and soothing background music.
How do you create a mental health event?
If you're looking to create a mental health event in your workplace for Mental Health Awareness Month or just as part of your overall wellness initiatives, here are some tips to help you get started:
Tips for planning a mental health event
Define your objectives
Form a planning committee
Choose an appropriate theme
Determine the format
Invite guest speakers
Promote the event
Evaluate the event
Define Your Objectives
Before planning any event, it's important to define your objectives. What do you hope to achieve with this event? Are you looking to raise awareness about mental health issues, provide resources and support to employees, or promote a specific mental health initiative? Once you have a clear understanding of your objectives, you can start to plan an event that will effectively meet those goals.
Form a Planning Committee
Creating a planning committee can help ensure that all aspects of the event are carefully considered and executed. The committee should include representatives from various departments within the company, including HR, management, and employees. By involving a diverse group of stakeholders in the planning process, you can ensure that the event meets the needs and interests of everyone involved.
Choose an Appropriate Theme
Choosing an appropriate theme can help tie the event together and make it more engaging for attendees. Consider themes that are relevant to Mental Health Awareness Month, such as stress management, mindfulness, or resilience. You can also consider tying the event into other workplace initiatives, such as a wellness program or employee resource group.
Determine the Format
When planning a mental health event, consider the best format for your objectives and audience. Will it be a workshop, seminar, lunch and learn, or a more interactive event, such as a trivia game or yoga class? Consider the availability and preferences of your employees when deciding on the format.
Invite Guest Speakers
Inviting guest speakers can add value and expertise to your event. Look for professionals with experience in mental health or related fields who can provide insights and practical advice on the topics you're covering. You can also invite employees to share their personal stories and experiences, which can help create a more personal and relatable event.
Promote the Event
Promoting the event is key to its success. Make sure to use a variety of channels to get the word out, including email, posters, social media, and the company website. You can also consider offering incentives or prizes for attendees, such as gift cards or wellness-related items.
Evaluate the Event
After the event, take time to evaluate its success. Did you achieve your objectives? Was attendance high? What feedback did you receive from attendees? Use this information to improve future events and continue to promote positive mental health and wellness in the workplace.
How can I promote mental health in the office?
Promoting positive mental health in the workplace is essential for creating a supportive and productive work environment. By organizing mental health events like these during Mental Health Awareness Month, companies can help break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage employees to prioritize their well-being. These events can help employees feel more supported and connected, which can lead to better job satisfaction and productivity.
It's important to remember that promoting positive mental health is an ongoing effort and should be a priority throughout the year, not just during Mental Health Awareness Month. By incorporating these types of events into the regular workplace culture, companies can create a more positive and supportive environment for all employees.
Host a Mental Health Awareness Month virtual trivia game with Bar None Games
Whether it's a meditation and mindfulness workshop, a stress management seminar, or Mental Health Awareness Month trivia, there are plenty of mental health event ideas that can help promote positive mental health and wellness in the workplace. By making mental health a priority, we can all contribute to creating a healthier, happier, and more productive workplace culture.
