When it feels like there’s a hundred and one things to do, balancing work, family and everything in between can seem nearly impossible. And sometimes, it can feel like one area in life is doing better than others. In a world that never seems to slow down, finding a healthy life-work balance is crucial for safeguarding both mental and physical well-being. According to a survey conducted by Mental Health America, 40% of U.S. adults reported working 50 hours per week and over 75% of people are afraid of getting punished for taking a day off to attend to their mental health.
A healthy life-work balance is about creating space for both productivity and personal fulfillment. However, many individuals tend to overlook the long-term consequences of neglecting balance, not realizing the impact it can have on their overall health. Without a healthy life-work balance, one might experience family conflicts, burnout and physical or mental conditions, not to mention stress. Chronic stress can lead to many health problems including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Digestive problems
- Headaches
- Muscle tension and pain
- Heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke
- Sleep problems
- Weight gain
- Problems with memory and focus
Carving out time for relaxation, social connections and activities that bring joy can significantly reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. Additionally, improving life-work balance can have a significant impact on one’s overall wellness and happiness.
Tips to help achieve a healthy life-work balance:
- Establish boundaries. Set clear boundaries by allocating specific hours and locations for working.
- Set manageable goals. Break tasks into achievable steps and prioritize essential work.
- Be efficient with time. Avoid procrastination by dividing larger projects into smaller tasks.
- Take regular breaks. Short breaks throughout the day can help refresh the mind and boost overall productivity.
- Communicate. Be honest with colleagues and family when feeling overwhelmed.
- Be nice. Perfection isn’t the goal. Accept that mistakes happen and don’t be too hard on oneself.
Accessing Care
Sutter Health Plus members have access to resources and support to help manage mental wellness. The Health Coaching program for stress management is available at no out-of-pocket cost. Members work one-on-one with a trained, personal health coach by phone to uncover barriers to self-management, link behavior to personal values, and set goals to make healthier lifestyle choices. For more information, call (844) 987-6095 or visit the Health and Wellness site accessed through the Member Portal.
Members may also self-refer to confidential in-person or virtual visits with a participating behavioral health provider through U.S. Behavioral Health Plan, California (USBHPC) by calling (855) 202-0984 or visiting liveandworkwell.com.
