The festive season is a time to relax and recharge, but returning to work in January can feel challenging. Disrupted routines, indulgent habits, and ambitious New Year’s resolutions often impact employee health and motivation.
From an occupational health perspective, this is the perfect opportunity to reset and build habits that support employee well-being, workplace productivity, and mental health throughout the year. Here are practical return-to-work tips for employees and managers.
- Reset Your Routine for Better Health After late nights and holiday treats, re-establishing healthy habits is essential:
- Prioritise sleep: Consistent bedtimes improve focus and energy.
- Eat smart: Choose balanced, nutrient-rich meals over festive indulgence.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can increase fatigue—keep water close at hand.
- Manage January Stress and Pressure The start of the year often brings ambitious goals and financial worries:
- Set realistic goals: Break big objectives into manageable steps.
- Avoid overload: Gradually increase workload to prevent burnout.
- Practice mindfulness: Breathing exercises or short walks reduce stress.
(Read NHS advice on mental health and well-being.)
- Focus on Physical Health at Work Occupational health emphasises prevention:
- Check ergonomics: Ensure your workstation supports good posture.
(Explore our manager guidance for ergonomic tips.)
- Move regularly: Stand, stretch, or walk every hour to avoid stiffness.
- Stay active: Incorporate light exercise before or after work.
- Support Mental Well-being Returning after a break can trigger anxiety or low motivation:
- Reconnect socially: Engage with colleagues to rebuild support networks.
- Use resources: Employee Assistance Programs offer confidential help.
- Positive mindset: Focus on the opportunities the new year brings.
(See HSE guidance on managing stress at work.)
- Plan for Attendance and Resilience
- Promote hygiene: Handwashing and flu vaccinations reduce sickness.
- Offer flexibility: Hybrid work or staggered hours can ease the transition.
(Learn about workplace health promotion from WHO.)
The Occupational Health Assessment service can support Business and Employees with factors such as:
- Health and lifestyle advice
- Stress management advice
- Manager guidance on health and policies.
- Occupational health Assessment can help with a proactive approach, aiming to reduce absenteeism and boost engagement for the year ahead.
