Occupational Wellbeing

Research Shows Resilient Mental Health Post-Pandemic

March 28, 2023
Disha Shah
Research Shows Resilient Mental Health Post-Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended lives and disrupted the normal rhythm of society. It's no surprise that many people have been struggling with their mental health during these trying times. 

However, a recent study published in the peer-reviewed medical journal BMJ is shedding light on a surprising finding: in general, people's mental health has remained remarkably resilient despite the pandemic. 

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the findings of the study and explore what they mean for mental health surveillance and policy. 

So, buckle up and get ready to learn about the power of the human spirit and the resilience of our mental health during challenging times.

The Study

In the study published in BMJ, researchers assessed the impact of the pandemic on mental health by analyzing 137 studies from around the world. The findings challenge some of the commonly held assumptions about the pandemic's effects on well-being.

Breaking Down the Data

The study analyzed various mental health indicators, including general mental health, anxiety, and depression symptoms. The researchers compared outcomes assessed from January 2018 to December 2019 with those assessed from January 2020 and beyond, with a focus on any changes that may have occurred.

Contrary to Popular Belief

Contrary to what many people might believe, the report suggests that the pandemic's overall impact on mental health has been relatively minor. In fact, the vast majority of analyses showed no significant changes in general mental health, anxiety, or depression symptoms.

The Nuances of Mental Health

While there were some small negative changes in mental health among certain subgroups, such as women and parents, the overall picture painted by the data is one of resilience rather than crisis.

The Importance of Continued Monitoring

While the report's findings are encouraging, they are by no means a reason to become complacent. The pandemic's impact on mental health is a complex and evolving issue, and continued monitoring and support will be essential in the months and years to come.

A New Perspective

As a whole, this report challenges our assumptions about the pandemic's impact on mental health. It highlights the need not to underestimate the capacity of people to recover after a crisis. As HR professionals continue to navigate these unprecedented times, it is important to keep this new perspective in mind and to continue providing the support that employees need to thrive.

Implications for HRs

Research Shows Resilient Mental Health Post-Pandemic
Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, HR professionals have faced unprecedented challenges in maintaining the well-being of their workforce. 

The BMJ study's findings offer valuable insights for HRs looking to create a supportive and resilient workplace culture. Here are some key implications of the study that HRs should keep in mind to support the mental health of their workforce.

Prioritize Mental Health Support

While the study shows that most people have been resilient in terms of mental health during the pandemic, it's important to remember that certain groups, such as women, parents, and those in the LGBTQ+ community, experienced small to medium negative changes. 

HRs should prioritize providing mental health support to employees, especially those in vulnerable groups.

Foster a Resilient Workplace Culture

The study's findings also suggest that people are generally resilient in the face of adversity. HRs can foster a resilient workplace culture by providing resources and support for employees to cope with stress and challenges. 

Access to counseling services, mental health days, and flexible work arrangements are all examples of how this can be done.

Continue Mental Health Surveillance

The study highlights the need for continued mental health surveillance, especially during times of crisis. HRs should work with management and employees to monitor the mental health of the workforce and address any concerns in a timely manner. 

Employee check-ins, anonymous feedback mechanisms, and mental health training for managers can all contribute to this.

Closing Thoughts

The BMJ study provides a nuanced understanding of the impact of the pandemic on people's mental health. HR professionals can use this information to support their employees better and create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

At The Wellness Tribe, we understand the importance of creating a holistic approach to employee wellness, including mental health. Our corporate wellness solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of your organization and can help you promote a healthy and supportive work environment. 

If you need any assistance in implementing employee wellness programs or resources, don't hesitate to reach out to us today. Together, we can prioritize the mental health and well-being of your workforce.

Physical Wellbeing

Hack Your Way to Health: The Science Behind Bio-Hacking

January 27, 2023
Rakhee Todankar
Hack Your Way to Health: The Science Behind Bio-Hacking

Welcome to the world of Bio-Hacking! A revolutionary approach to optimizing our health through the manipulation of our diets. Gone are the days when we simply relied on conventional wisdom and bland diets to maintain our well-being. The landscape of our diets has shifted dramatically, with a growing interest in the science behind how we fuel our bodies. 

And that's where Bio Hacking comes in, offering a new way to unlock our full potential through tailored nutrition. By understanding the intricate interplay between our diets and our bodies, we can fine-tune our eating habits to achieve optimal health. 

Join me on this exciting journey of discovery, where the possibilities are endless and the results truly transformational.

The Art of Nutrigenomics

One of the most exciting developments in the field of nutrition is the science of Nutrigenomics. By sending a simple blood sample to a specialized laboratory, we can delve deep into our genetic makeup and discover the optimal diet tailored just for us. 

From uncovering food sensitivities to maximizing our nutrient intake, Nutrigenomics is a powerful tool for unlocking the full potential of our health and wellness. 

The Time-Tested Technique

Intermittent fasting has been a timeless technique, originating from ancient civilizations where food was scarce and long periods without eating were common. It's about balancing controlled eating and fasting to find what works best for you.

This practice brings numerous benefits, such as improved metabolism, better insulin sensitivity, and reduced inflammation. It allows your body to focus on important processes like cell repair and waste removal by regulating your eating patterns and giving your digestive system a break. Find your rhythm, whether it's fasting for 12 or 16 hours, and reap the benefits of this time-tested technique.

"Good nutrition is a responsibility, not a restriction." - Bettina Leigh

The Elimination Diet

Hack Your Way to Health: The Science Behind Bio-Hacking
Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash

As a professional nutritionist, I always suggest exploring the power of the elimination diet to uncover food sensitivities and improve overall health. The process is simple: by eliminating certain foods and then gradually adding them back into your diet, you can discover which foods trigger adverse reactions and determine any allergies you may have. 

The Fiber Fix

When it comes to your diet, fiber is often the unsung hero. This time-tested nutrient provides a multitude of health benefits, from supporting good gut health and boosting immunity to improving digestion and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. But despite its many perks, many of us struggle to get enough fiber in our diets. 

Start by incorporating more fruits and veggies into your diet. These nutrient-rich foods are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health and well-being. Consider adding various colorful food items to your plate, and try new recipes incorporating fiber-rich ingredients, like whole grains and legumes.

The Supercharge of Superfoods

As a professional nutritionist, it's hard to deny the buzz surrounding "superfoods" and their potential health benefits. But what exactly makes a food "super"? It's all about the high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support our overall health and wellness. From nutrient-dense berries to anti-inflammatory spices, incorporating these power-packed foods into our diets can give us the extra boost we need to feel our best. 

So why not add a sprinkle of spinach to your smoothie, or enjoy a handful of goji berries as a snack?

The Protein Punch

Hack Your Way to Health: The Science Behind Bio-Hacking
Photo by Mark DeYoung on Unsplash

Protein is the powerhouse nutrient that provides the building blocks for our muscles, hormones, and enzymes. It's essential for maintaining muscle strength and tone and helps ward off cravings by filling us up. But the benefits of protein don't stop there - it also plays a critical role in balancing hormones and managing blood sugar levels. 

From animal-based sources like meat, fish, and dairy to plant-based options like beans, lentils, and tofu, there's a variety of ways to get more protein into your diet. 

The Sweet, Sunny, and Savvy Approach

The Sugar Solution: Sweeter Health Ahead

Sugar, the sweet treat that has become a staple in our diets, is causing more harm than good. Overconsumption of processed foods and sugar leads to a host of health problems and is taking a toll on our bodies. But it's never too late to make better choices for our health. We can turn our health around by cutting back on processed foods and sugar and enjoy a sweeter, healthier future.

The Vitamin D Boost: Light Up Your Health

Vitamin D is crucial in optimal health, playing a role in everything from bone health to immune function. Maximizing your vitamin D levels through sun exposure and supplementing for deficiency can help ensure you're getting enough of this essential nutrient. Don't let a lack of sun keep you from shining bright!

The Practice of Bio-Hacking

Biohacking is the process of making small changes in your diet, exercise, meditation, and mindfulness practices to achieve big results for your health. Keeping a food log and making conscious choices can help you make the most of your bio-hacking journey, leading you to a healthier, happier you.

Conclusion

The journey to healthy living and well-being doesn't have to be complicated. Bio-hacking is a simple and effective way to take control of your health and harness the power of diet, exercise, and mindfulness. With the help of professional guidance, you can find your own path to health and happiness by making small, sustainable changes that will have a big impact on your health in the long run. 

So why wait? Embrace the power of bio-hacking today and start your journey towards a healthier, happier life.

Corporate Wellbeing

The Silent Treatment: The Job Search Spiral of Ghosting

February 19, 2023
The Wellness Tribe Team
The Silent Treatment: The Job Search Spiral of Ghosting

Picture this: You’ve been searching for your dream job for months and finally found the perfect opportunity. You send in your application and wait anxiously for a response. Days turn into weeks, and your inbox remains eerily quiet. 

You start to wonder if your application was even received. You check the job posting, and it's still up, giving you hope. But as the days turn into weeks and you hear nothing back, your hope turns into frustration, anxiety, and uncertainty. You've been ghosted. Once reserved for bad dating etiquette, ghosting has infiltrated the job search process, leaving job seekers and employers trapped in a spiral of silence. 

In this article, we'll explore the negative impact of ghosting in the job search process and the reasons why it's happening. We'll also provide tips for improving communication during the hiring process and how technology can play a role in ending this frustrating trend. 

Left in Limbo

The Silent Treatment: The Job Search Spiral of Ghosting
Photo by Vlada Karpovich

The silent treatment of ghosting in the job search process is not just discourteous, but it can also have significant negative impacts. Firstly, when job seekers receive no response from potential employers, they are left feeling abandoned in the dark, wondering what they did wrong or if they are still being considered. In addition, the lack of communication can lead to frustration, anxiety, and uncertainty, making the job search process even more daunting.

Secondly, ghosting can damage an employer's reputation as potential candidates share their negative experiences with others, leading to missed opportunities for finding the right candidates. 

Lastly, the long-term impacts of ghosting can be significant for both job seekers and employers, as it can create a lack of trust and transparency in the hiring process. Therefore, it's time to acknowledge the negative impacts of ghosting and take steps to improve communication during the hiring process.

"When you ghost a candidate, you're not just losing them for this job, you're losing them for any future opportunities as well." - Jessica Merrell, Founder of Workology

Wandering Eyes

The rise of ghosting in the job search process begs the question: why is it happening? There are several potential reasons why job seekers and employers alike may be guilty of going radio silent.

Firstly, some job seekers may not be fully committed to the hiring process and may be exploring multiple opportunities at once. This can lead to disinterest in a particular role or company and a lack of motivation to follow up on the application.

On the other hand, employers may not prioritise communication with candidates or may be juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities. The result can be a lack of communication, leaving job seekers in the dark about their application status.

Another potential factor is the role of technology. With the rise of automated job search platforms and social media, communication during the job search process has become increasingly depersonalised. This can make it easier for job seekers and employers to avoid direct communication, leading to a higher likelihood of ghosting.

Regardless of the reasons behind it, the negative impact of ghosting in the job search process cannot be ignored. It's time to explore solutions for improving communication and preventing ghosting altogether.

Communication is Key

The Silent Treatment: The Job Search Spiral of Ghosting
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

It's clear that ghosting during the job search process is a frustrating and damaging trend for both job seekers and employers. Fortunately, there are steps that both parties can take to improve communication and prevent ghosting.

For job seekers:

  • Follow up after submitting an application to ensure it was received and express continued interest in the role.
  • Be patient and understanding but also assertive in following up on the status of the application.
  • Keep track of all applications and responses to stay organised and avoid confusion.

For employers:

  • Create a clear communication plan and stick to it, providing updates to candidates at every step of the hiring process.
  • Set realistic expectations for response time and follow through on commitments.
  • Utilise technology, such as automated responses and candidate tracking tools, to streamline communication and reduce the likelihood of ghosting.

By taking these steps, both job seekers and employers can work together to create a more positive and productive job search experience.

A Call to Action

In today's job market, ghosting has become an all-too-common occurrence. However, it doesn't have to be this way. By understanding the negative impact of ghosting and taking proactive steps to improve communication, job seekers and employers can work together to create a more positive and productive hiring process.

At the end of the day, clear communication and mutual respect are key to preventing ghosting and building strong relationships between job seekers and employers. So let's prioritise these values and put an end to the ghosting spiral once and for all.

As a corporate wellness company, we at The Wellness Tribe understand the importance of clear and respectful communication in all aspects of our lives, including the workplace. We believe that a positive and productive work environment starts with healthy communication, and we encourage employers to take the lead in preventing ghosting and creating a more positive hiring process for all.

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This month we are focusing on food and how it affects your mental health. Join us as we bring in the most relevant interesting content from across the wellness segment.

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