Mesi Balog, Workplace Wellbeing Consultant & Founder of Treat Your Staff discusses the value of raising awareness on employee mental health and well-being, and doing this in a truly meaningful way. Organising an office wellness week is the perfect way for companies to prioritise employee well-being in a fun and engaging way…
While mental health should be a focus all year round, dedicating a whole week to thoughtful activities and open conversations can make a lasting impact on your teamโs morale, productivity, and overall happiness. So, why not go beyond the usual emails and posters and plan a full-blown wellness week that supports your employees’ mental health while bringing a smile to their faces? Ready to get started? Hereโs your guide to plan a brilliant wellness week.
The added value in wellness weeks
Mental health is more than a buzzword โ itโs the foundation of a happy, thriving team. Research shows that mental health challenges affect 1 in 4 people in the UK each year. Yet, stigma and misunderstanding still prevent open conversations. An office wellness week offers a unique opportunity for companies to break down these barriers. By participating, youโre not just checking a box โ youโre showing your team that their well-being truly matters.
Practical tips on how to start organising an office wellness week:
STEP 1: start planning early
The key to a successful Wellness Week is preparation. Get your team involved early to understand their needs and preferences.
- Send out a quick survey to ask about the types of activities they would enjoy and the issues they want to explore.
- Choose a week to implement the program, such as Mental Health Awareness Week (May), World Mental Health Day (October), or a company-wide wellness initiative.
Pro tip: Form a Wellness Committee or get on board a wellness consultant to lead the project.
STEP 2: implement daily activities
Never lose sight about the aim of the whole activation: raising awareness on mental health & well-being.
What I would recommend based on my experience working with various companies across the UK is that simplicity works best.
Keep it simple and structure the week around the 4 pillars of wellbeing:
Each day focuses on a key pillar offering practical activities to support a healthier and happier workplace in a fun and engaging way:
1.) Monday: mental Health
2.) Tuesday: physical health
3.) Wednesday: nutrition & gut health
4.) Thursday: financial wellbeing
Each day includes a morning session, an afternoon session, and ongoing activities. Encourage participation by providing easy-to-follow challenges (e.g., step count challenge, digital detox).
ย STEP 3: encourage engagement
- Involve leadership to promote participation
- Offer incentives for engagement (e.g. wellness rewards, prizes, recognition)
- Gather feedback to tailor future wellbeing initiatives
STEP 4: make wellness a year-round commitment
While a Wellness Week can be a fantastic catalyst, true cultural change happens when well-being is part of everyday life. Use this week to kick-start ongoing initiatives such as:
- Regular mental health check-ins
- Monthly wellness days
- Flexible working arrangements
- Ongoing mental health education
Need help in organising an office wellness week that wows?
Planning an engaging and meaningful Wellness Week doesnโt have to be overwhelming. Whether youโre looking for expert-led workshops, interactive activities, or personalised wellness strategies, there are professionals who can help you bring your vision to life. Ready to plan your Wellness Week? Letโs make it unforgettable.
Read the latest wellness article by Mesi Balog, PA Life’s wellness columnist.
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