Disconnecting from Work: Key to Boosting Employee Mental Health and Productivity

Employee Mental Health

Disconnecting from Work: Key to Boosting Employee Mental Health and Productivity

The Imperative of Disconnecting from Work for Mental Well-being

The rising trend of burnout among employees has spurred many employers into acknowledging the significance of time off from work. Employees who take time to unwind report improved mental health, heightened job satisfaction, and increased productivity upon resuming work. However, the challenge lies in the ability of employees to fully disconnect from work. According to a survey by The Harris Poll on behalf of Ceridian, a human resource technology firm, 55% of U.S. workers admit to not completely unplugging from work, while 17% remain fully connected even during their time off.

Michelle Bonam, Ceridianโ€™s vice president of organizational effectiveness, emphasizes the importance of taking time for oneself to recharge and replenish. “If you don’t disconnect, you don’t truly get that time,” she warns.

The Fear Factor in Disconnecting

The reluctance of professionals to take time off often stems from the fear of missing out. The pay-for-performance culture prevalent in the U.S. perpetuates the belief that one’s performance suffers if they miss out on an opportunity while away from work, according to Langsett. The dread of returning to a mountain of work, the expectation to respond to emails and attend meetings during vacation, and the anxiety surrounding job security due to increasing layoffs also contribute to professionals’ hesitation to unplug.

Strategies for Encouraging Employee Unplugging

Leaders play a crucial role in facilitating a healthy work-life balance for their employees. Clear communication regarding how work will be managed during an employee’s absence is key. Bonam suggests that managers should reinforce the value of each role within the organization and establish protocols for urgent communication during an employee’s vacation. Identifying individuals who can make decisions in someone’s absence is another effective strategy.

In this context, it’s worth considering that the best sit stand desk or an electric height adjustable standing desk can contribute significantly to physical health at work. However, mental health requires more than just ergonomic solutions. It calls for a conscious effort to disconnect and recharge.

The Pros and Cons of Remote Work

Remote work has brought its own set of benefits and challenges. On one hand, it offers flexibility and eliminates commute time. On the other hand, it blurs the line between personal and professional life, making it even harder for employees to disconnect.

In this scenario, creating a dedicated workspace at home can help maintain work-life boundaries. For instance, one can buy a standing desk or invest in a health benefits of electric stand up desk to create an office-like environment at home. Even a simple addition like a TV lift can transform a living room into a temporary workspace during work hours, allowing it to revert back to a relaxation zone post-work.

In conclusion, while technological advancements have made it easier for professionals to stay connected 24/7, it’s crucial to remember that constant connectivity can lead to burnout. Employers must not only promote but also model healthy disconnecting habits for their employees. After all, a recharged employee is a more productive and satisfied one.

author avatar
Guy Director
Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Ergomotion Director since 2005.

Google Reviews

Ergomotion

Google Reviews

Fran Prem 29/05/25

Google
So happy with my new sit/stand desk. The price was very competitive and the quality is excellent. It's very unusual these days to have the level of human to human customer service Guy offered, from the time of ordering all the way to installation. Guy delivered my desk on time, put it together, set up my computer and tidied away the cables. Such a nice person, and a wonderful experience. Would highly recommend.

Pree P 28/03/25

Google
My brother in lawโ€™s glowing recommendation of the ergomotion sit- stand desk that he has been using for a few years now, and specially the service that Guy delivers, piqued my interest. And now I am convert!

From the moment I first interacted with Guy to the day my standing desk arrived, Iโ€™ve been nothing short of impressed. The booking process was incredibly smooth and hassle-free - Guy made everything so simple and straightforward. His customer service was top-notch, with clear communication and genuine helpfulness made the overall process even more amazing. I appreciate how patiently he answered my questions and explained the care instructions for the wooden top.

For the product itself! The standing desk is a game-changer - the attention to detail, premium material used, beautiful design, smooth adjustment all transformed my home office. The craftsmanship is top-notch. What really sets this experience apart is how much I genuinely enjoy using the desk every single day. Would highly recommend!! Thank you ๐Ÿ™

Wesley Dao 12/02/25

Google
Bought a standing desk after looking around at options. Solid wood and Linak frame so all around good quality. Assembly was simple with an electric screwdriver. Guy was very helpful and responsive.

Amanda O 28/01/25

Google
Bought a standing desk and I love it. Quality product at a great price. Amazing service from Guy, who helped explain the desk and accessories for efficient workspace setup. I highly recommend.

Rick Bruce 02/11/24

Google
After doing some due diligence and research into actuators I settled on this unit from ergomotion this unit is so solid and the operation is quite and flawless. The purchasing process and the shipping was absolutely fantastic!! I couldnโ€™t be happier with the product and the entire process, I would highly recommend this companyโ€ฆ. Rick Bruce

Shelley Jensen 07/09/24

Google
Guy (the owner) delivered the desk and set it up quickly. He then gave me a lesson on how to use it and how to get the most out of it. Arrived on time and was absolutely lovely to deal with throughout the whole process. Highly recommend.

clifford sneider 06/09/24

Google
Guy was fantastic and the desk is amazing

Jo Manning 08/08/24

Google
I bought an adjustable desk from Guy a couple of years ago, got great service and good price. Recently we had a tiny issue which could not be fixed over the phone. Guy was more than happy to come out and look at it 2 days later. All fixed! I really appreciated his patience with me and accommodating us so quickly. Great old fashioned service and piece of mind. I love it. I know where to get my second desk when needed. Thank you Guy. Jo Manning

Deborah Hunt 25/07/24

Google
ergomotion were fantastic to deal with. excellent customer service and a great product.

Andrew Pieterse 14/06/24

Google
Great service and really quick shipping. It is great to know that you are getting quality parts from a Scandinavian manufacturer with your standing desk purchase rather than the cheap knock off stuff you get from other major brands. Reasonably priced for the quality too!
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