Everyone knows the magic of a good night’s sleep. Sleeping 7-8 hours a night helps with brain function and energy levels. Still, insomnia is a massive issue in the United States. Factors such as the pandemic, work-related stress, and technology have worsened people’s sleep schedules.
In the workplace, poor sleep leads to a sharp decline in productivity and can seriously affect an employee’s well-being. Employers should prioritize their workforce’s sleep, so they are mentally healthy and ready for a productive workday. In this blog, we will cover some tips to boost employee wellness by promoting sleep.
Insomnia & Common Causes
Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people across the country. In fact, nearly a third of the U.S. adult population is sleep deprived. People who suffer from insomnia have trouble falling asleep, wake up throughout the night, wake up unrefreshed, and experience daytime problems like fatigue and mood/concentration issues. Even for those without insomnia, sleep deprivation can be affecting their sleep.
Sleep deprivation can be caused by a variety of different physiological factors. Life stressors such as work or relationship problems amplify anxiety and lead to sleep deprivation. Medications, chronic pain, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and neurological disorders are also factors that play a role in poor sleep.
How Can Poor Sleep Impact Employees In The Workplace?
Sleep deprivation can be detrimental to work performance. Getting an insufficient amount of sleep leads to drawbacks in productivity, career progression, and overall satisfaction from work. Additionally, poor sleep can actually be physically dangerous as it increases job-related accidents and increases the chances of chronic illnesses like obesity and heart disease. Promoting a consistent, healthy sleep schedule is vital to a happy workforce and productive environment.
3 Effective Ways To Promote Sleep
Encourage Daily Exercise
Exercising daily is key to achieving healthy sleep. Not only does it physically tire you out, but it also relieves stress and anxiety— which are sleep’s worst enemies. Even a daily 30-45 minute walk can help employees experience a more restful night of sleep. Consider starting an activity challenge as part of your employee wellness program to help your team get active.
Educate On The Importance Of Sleep
The best way to promote healthy sleep is through education. Most people are so distracted by work and life-related issues that they don’t ever stop to think about their sleep schedule. Consider holding a meeting with your employees to educate them on the benefits of healthy sleep and teach them ways to achieve it. Here are some topics you can bring up:
- Avoid using cell phones in bed
- Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed
- Make sure the bedroom is quiet, dark, and comfortable
- Manage worries through meditation or counseling
Discussing these topics with employees will demonstrate your care for them and will help boost their overall wellness.
Limit Working Extra Hours
Although it may sound counterproductive, limiting the work hours of employees can actually lead to more work being done. Ensuring that employees are not overworking will help restore their energy and focus. Set a limit on working hours for a 24-hour day or a 7-week period. Many employees feel compelled to work longer hours, consequently compromising productivity and attention.
Promoting Workplace Wellness at Digital Mules
Workplace wellness is one of the most important factors of a successful organization. At Digital Mules, we pride ourselves on putting our employees first and ensuring their mental health needs are taken care of. Learn wellness techniques to apply to your workforce with us!
For more information on the different services we provide and how we can help you focus on your employee’s wellness, please contact us today.
