By Vanessa Jupe, CEO of Leva

The holidays. A time for joy, celebration, and connection, but for many, it's also a time of heightened stress, anxiety, and loneliness. As HR professionals, you have a unique opportunity to support your employees' mental well-being during this challenging period.

The office holiday party and festive decorations are a good start to fostering a fun culture, so we won’t cover that here. Instead, let's explore some strategies that prioritize mental wellness this holiday season.

1. Acknowledge the Reality

It's crucial to acknowledge that the holidays aren't always merry and bright for everyone. Financial strain, family pressures, and grief over lost loved ones can intensify during this time. According to the American Psychological Association, 38% of people report increased stress levels during the holidays. By openly acknowledging these challenges, we create a safe space for employees to share their struggles without shame.

2. Promote Flexibility and Boundaries

The pressure to juggle work deadlines with holiday shopping, travel, and social commitments can be overwhelming. Offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or adjusted hours, can help employees manage their time more effectively. You may not be in an organization that intentionally shuts down for a couple of weeks during the holidays. Still, you can encourage employees to take a break and utilize their vacation time. Being able to disconnect fully will allow them to recharge. Research by the University of California, Berkeley, found that even short breaks can significantly reduce stress hormones and improve cognitive function.

3. Foster Connection and Community

Loneliness and isolation are often amplified during the holidays, especially for those who are far from family or have experienced loss. Organize virtual or in-person social events that cater to different interests and comfort levels. Consider activities like online holiday trivia, a virtual cookie baking class, or a volunteer day at a local charity. A few experiences I’ve had include competitions during the holidays from shuffleboard to pickleball department. And something I particularly enjoyed was a prior employer’s annual casino night featuring snacks, an open bar, and a live band with dancing. These initiatives can foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among colleagues.

4. Normalize Mental Health Conversations

Destigmatizing mental health concerns is essential. Encourage open communication by promoting the use of your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or hosting workshops on stress management and mindfulness techniques. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that workplace interventions aimed at reducing mental health stigma led to increased help-seeking behavior and improved employee well-being.

5. Lead by Example

As leaders, it's crucial to model healthy behaviors. Take breaks, prioritize self-care, and set boundaries. By demonstrating a commitment to our own mental well-being, we send a powerful message to our employees that it's okay to prioritize their own needs.

6. Leverage Technology

Digital tools can play a significant role in supporting employee mental health. Consider implementing a dedicated mental health tool, like Calmerry or Talkspace, or a platform like Leva, which provides personalized wellbeing support, access to mental health professionals, and resources for stress management and resilience building for new parents. These services can be particularly beneficial for employees who may be hesitant to seek help through traditional channels.

Together, we can make this holiday season stand out as one of the best yet by supporting employee mental health. By fostering understanding, flexibility, and connection, we can help our employees navigate this challenging time and thrive both personally and professionally.