Often dubbed the “most depressing day of the year”, the third Monday in January is known as Blue Monday. At Safewell, we prefer the alternative Brew Monday — a simple but powerful prompt to check in with colleagues and encourage connection. A cuppa, a conversation, and knowing where to get help can all support better mental wellbeing during the darker months.
It’s important to remember that employers also have a legal responsibility to support mental health at work. Work-related stress should be managed just like any other workplace risk. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidance on mental health, work, and the workplace, explaining how stress can affect employees and what practical steps employers should take to assess and control these risks. You can read the full guidance here.
Small, proactive actions can make a big difference. Whether it’s creating opportunities for open conversation, checking in earlier rather than later, or signposting support, managers can help foster a safer, healthier, and more connected workplace.
Top 5 Practical Ways Managers Can Support Mental Wellbeing
Check in regularly – even a quick five-minute chat can help staff feel seen and supported.
Encourage small social moments – Brew Monday is a great excuse for a conversation over a cup of tea. Casual connection matters.
Signpost support – Make sure your team knows about employee assistance programs, mental health resources, or counselling options.
Be flexible where possible – adjust workloads, offer hybrid working, or allow small breaks to help manage stress.
Lead by example – model healthy work habits, talk openly about wellbeing, and show it’s OK to seek help.
By making wellbeing a regular part of workplace culture, managers can help their teams feel supported, connected, and equipped to navigate the challenges of the year ahead.
President of IOSH 2008, Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
I am pleased that you are helping dispel some of the dafter myths that surround OH&S (a passion you and I clearly have in common) and the item clearly indicates that as with so many of our professional colleagues you are not about stopping fun on the pretext of H&S. It is only with the help of people such as yourself that we will eventually get the message across that OH&S is about bringing (as you so aptly put it) purpose and value to peoples lives
