Mental Health in the Workplace: Why the Space You Work in Matters

As the winter months set in, it’s not just the weather that turns grey – our mental health can take a hit too, especially at work. Seasonal dips in mood are common, and the growing loneliness epidemic has made these months even harder for many workers. The workplace plays a pivotal role in shaping mental well-being, and thoughtful workspace design can make all the difference.

The Impact of Mental Health in the Workplace

The statistics speak for themselves:

• Over 9 million people in the UK report feeling lonely often or always.
• Mental health issues cost UK employers up to £54 billion annually in absenteeism, presenteeism, and staff turnover.

With winter exacerbating feelings of isolation and stress, businesses have a responsibility to prioritise mental health. One key way to do this is by rethinking the design and function of workspaces.

How Workspace Design Supports Mental Health

At Work.Life, we believe that the spaces we work in can significantly impact how we feel. Our coworking spaces are designed with human connection at their core – from open-plan kitchens to breakout areas that encourage spontaneous interactions.

“Every element of our spaces is crafted to foster connection and well-being,” says Annie Bolger-Smith, Work.Life’s Project Manager. “We’ve focused on creating areas where members can collaborate easily, relax when needed, and feel part of a wider community.”

For example, communal kitchens and lounges encourage organic conversations, while our banquette booths provide quiet zones for focused work. This balance helps combat the overstimulation that can come with open-plan offices, while also addressing the isolation that remote workers often experience.

The Loneliness Epidemic in Workplaces

Loneliness isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a workplace one too. According to research by TotalJobs, 60% of UK workers feel lonely at work, with younger employees particularly affected by their mental health.

Work.Life addresses this by creating countless opportunities for connection:

• Community-driven design: Our spaces are set up to naturally encourage collaboration, whether it’s through team events, workshops, or simply sharing a coffee in the kitchen.
• Flexible working areas: These allow for a mix of private and social working styles, so members can choose what suits their mental state on any given day.
• Wellness initiatives: Our members enjoy exclusive discounts on gyms and other wellbeing-related perks to support them while at work.
• Weekly socials: Whether it’s a Monday breakfast or a Thursday beer & pizza, all Work.Life events are created so our members can build meaningful relationships with one another.
• Shared purpose: Thoughtfully curated spaces with like-minded professionals encourage collaboration and a sense of belonging.

Why Workplace Happiness Matters

Happiness in the workplace isn’t a luxury – it’s a productivity driver. A study by Oxford University found that happy employees are 13% more productive. This goes hand in hand with mental health at work, which is why Work.Life is committed to fostering workplace happiness.

“Workplace happiness starts with feeling supported and valued,” says Laura Morton, Head of People at Work.Life. “When employees are part of a community and have access to spaces that prioritise their well-being, it boosts morale, collaboration, and performance.”

How to Support Mental Health at Work This Winter

• Create spaces for connection: Whether it’s through communal areas or team-building activities, fostering human interaction is key.
• Offer flexibility: Allowing employees to choose where and how they work can help them feel more in control, reducing stress.
• Prioritise wellness initiatives: Provide access to mental health resources, mindfulness sessions, or even just a quiet room for decompression. 

This winter, as mental health challenges come to the forefront, businesses have an opportunity to make meaningful changes. By prioritising thoughtful workspace design and fostering a culture of happiness and connection, companies can support their employees not just during the colder months, but year-round.

Work.Life is proud to lead the way with coworking spaces designed for people, not just productivity. Learn more about how we’re redefining the workplace experience here.

Join us in our new space at Farringdon, St Cross Street from February 2025! Find out more here.