World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on 10 October. This year’s theme set by the World Federation of Mental Health is workplace mental health. The theme highlights the importance of addressing mental health and wellbeing in the workplace, for the benefit of people, organisations, and communities.
This theme is especially important to us at Benholm Group, as we believe that the physical work environment plays a crucial role in supporting mental health and wellbeing.
Our expertise lies in creating office spaces that incorporate natural elements, like plants, to help reduce stress, boost mood, and improve productivity. With the workplace being where many of us spend the majority of our time, it’s vital to consider how the environment can positively impact mental health.
Let’s explore some of the ways greenery can make a difference:
1. Reduction of Stress
Work can be a significant source of stress for many people, whether due to tight deadlines, high expectations, or everyday pressures. Studies have consistently demonstrated that incorporating natural elements like plants into office spaces can significantly reduce stress levels. Last year, we participated in a groundbreaking study which uncovered that a biophilic office provides a sense of well-being and environmental value that is 200% greater than that of a typical workplace.
Plants help create a calming atmosphere that can encourage relaxation and reduce anxiety. The presence of greenery has been found to lower blood pressure, reduce muscle tension, and even positively affect heart rate, helping employees feel more at ease throughout their day.
2. Boosting Mood and Enhancing Mental Clarity
A workplace filled with plants does more than just create a visually pleasing environment—it can also uplift employees’ moods. In fact, research shows that exposure to natural elements like plants can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” chemicals. These natural mood boosters can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, leaving employees feeling more positive and motivated.
Improved mood often leads to enhanced focus and mental clarity, which benefits both employees and the organisations they work for. An enriched workspace with plants promotes creativity and problem-solving, contributing to an overall increase in productivity and job satisfaction.
3. Enhancing Cognitive Function and Productivity
Incorporating nature into the office environment has been shown to boost cognitive function. Studies suggest that being around plants can improve concentration, memory retention, and problem-solving abilities. The presence of greenery not only helps employees feel mentally refreshed, but it can also increase their productivity by as much as 15%.
The link between plants and productivity goes hand-in-hand with reduced absenteeism as well. A workplace that promotes wellbeing is likely to see fewer employees taking sick days due to mental health issues, leading to a more engaged and healthier workforce.
4. Improving Air Quality
Good indoor air quality is crucial for overall health, and plants can play a surprising role in improving it. Certain types of plants are known for their ability to filter harmful toxins from the air, creating a cleaner and healthier workplace. Improved air quality can reduce symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and respiratory problems, all of which can impact an employee’s mental and physical wellbeing.
Cleaner air, coupled with the positive psychological impact of plants, creates a healthier and more productive work environment.
5. Creating a Connection with Nature
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, many employees feel disconnected from nature. The introduction of plants into the office helps to bridge that gap, bringing a sense of the outdoors into indoor spaces. This connection with nature, known as biophilia, is deeply rooted in our biology, and engaging with natural elements has been shown to improve overall wellbeing and mental health.
By adding plants to a workspace, employees can experience the calming and restorative benefits of nature, even if they are spending their day indoors.
As we celebrate World Mental Health Day, it’s clear that incorporating greenery into office design plays a vital role in creating a healthy, happy, and productive workforce. At Benholm Group, we specialise in transforming workspaces with nature, benefiting both employees and the organisations they work for.
To explore how biophilic design can improve your workplace, visit our dedicated Workplace Wellbeing page for insights and resources. Ready to take the next step? Claim a free bespoke planting proposal from our expert design team. It’s an easy, no-obligation way to discover how plants can enhance your workplace.
Click below to get started and let us help you create a thriving, more supportive work environment.
