September marks Self-Care Awareness Month, making it the perfect time for organisations to reflect on how they support the mental health and wellbeing of employees. In today’s competitive job market, businesses are increasingly recognising that looking after their people is not just a moral responsibility—it’s also a smart recruitment and retention strategy.
Why Self-Care in the Workplace Matters
The modern workplace is fast-paced, high-pressure, and constantly changing. Employees are balancing not only demanding workloads but also personal responsibilities. Without adequate support, this can quickly lead to stress, burnout, and decreased productivity.
For employers, the cost is high. Poor mental health is one of the leading causes of absenteeism and presenteeism (being at work but not fully functioning), costing UK employers billions each year. Conversely, businesses that foster a culture of wellbeing and self-care benefit from:
- Higher levels of engagement and productivity
- Increased staff retention and reduced turnover
- Stronger employer branding, making it easier to attract top talent
- A positive, supportive company culture
In short: investing in employee wellbeing is not only the right thing to do—it’s good for business.
Practical Ways to Support Self-Care in the Workplace
As we mark Self-Care Awareness Month, now is the ideal opportunity to evaluate your workplace practices. Here are some practical strategies businesses can implement:
- Promote Work-Life Balance
Encourage employees to take regular breaks, make use of annual leave, and disconnect outside of working hours. Flexible working policies, such as remote or hybrid options, can also make a big difference.
- Normalise Mental Health Conversations
Creating an open dialogue around mental health in the workplace helps remove stigma. Consider training managers as mental health first aiders, or introducing confidential support services such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs).
- Encourage Healthy Habits
Small initiatives like walking meetings, mindfulness sessions, or workplace fitness challenges can boost energy and morale. Providing access to healthy snacks and hydration stations can also support physical and mental wellbeing.
- Provide Learning & Development Opportunities
Growth and progression are central to employee satisfaction. Investing in training shows employees they are valued, helping reduce stress linked to career uncertainty.
- Recognise and Reward Efforts
Acknowledging contributions—whether through formal recognition programmes or a simple thank-you—can make employees feel appreciated and motivated.
The Link Between Wellbeing and Recruitment
When candidates are considering new opportunities, workplace culture is a significant factor. Job seekers today want more than just a salary—they want to work in an environment where they feel supported, respected, and able to thrive.
By actively prioritising mental health and wellbeing, employers strengthen their employer brand. This helps them attract candidates who are not only highly skilled but also aligned with company values.
From a recruitment perspective, highlighting your company’s wellbeing initiatives can set you apart from competitors. During interviews or on your careers page, showcase your commitment to self-care—whether through flexible working, mental health support, or wellness benefits.
A Long-Term Investment
Self-Care Awareness Month serves as a reminder that wellbeing is not a one-off initiative but an ongoing commitment. Employers who embed self-care into their culture are not only supporting their current workforce but also laying the foundation for sustainable growth and long-term success.
In recruitment, retention, and overall business performance, the message is clear: when employees feel good, businesses do better.
✨Final Thought
This September, take a moment to reflect on how your workplace promotes self-care. By making small but meaningful changes, you’ll not only improve the wellbeing of your team but also build a stronger, more attractive organisation for the future.