Thursday, 01 June 2023 / Published in webinars

Mental Well-Being: How to Improve It Daily (Habits, Examples, Workplace Support)

Mental well-being is the ability to cope with daily stress, stay emotionally balanced, and function well at home and at work. It is not about being “happy all the time.” It is about feeling steady enough to handle challenges, build healthy relationships, and keep moving forward.

In today’s fast-paced world, mental well-being matters for everyone — students, working professionals, leaders, founders, and HR teams. When mental well-being is strong, people think clearly, make better decisions, communicate better, and recover faster after setbacks.

For organizations, mental well-being in the workplace is not only an employee-care topic — it directly impacts productivity, retention, collaboration, and leadership effectiveness. That’s why many companies now invest in workplace wellbeing programs, coaching, and mentoring support to help employees stay resilient and engaged.

Note: This blog shares educational information and practical habits. It does not replace medical advice. If you feel overwhelmed for a long time, it’s always okay to seek professional help.

What is Mental Well-Being?
Why Mental Well-Being Matters (Life + Work)
5 Simple Ways to Improve Mental Well-Being
Mental Well-Being in the Workplace
How to Improve Your Mental Well-Being Every Day
Types of Mental Well-Being (With Examples)
How Coaching and Mentoring Support Mental Well-Being
Simple Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Well-Being
When to Seek Professional Help for Mental Well-Being
uExcelerate Mental Well-Being Program
Employee Mental Well-Being Speakers (Panel Highlights)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Mental Well-Being

What is Mental Well-Being?

Mental well-being means having a healthy state of mind that helps you handle life’s ups and downs. It includes how you think, feel, behave, and connect with people around you. When your mental well-being is in a good place, you can manage stress, work productively, learn well, and contribute to your family and community.

According to the World Health Organization, mental health is a state of well-being that helps people cope with stress, realize their abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to their community. (Source: WHO – Mental health: strengthening our response)

Mental health vs mental well-being: They are closely linked. Mental health is the broader concept, while mental well-being focuses more on daily balance, resilience, and quality of life. You can improve mental well-being with small habits, support systems, and healthy routines.

Example: Imagine a manager who feels stressed before a big presentation. If they sleep well, practice deep breathing, and speak to a mentor or coach for clarity, they manage the stress better and perform with confidence. That is mental well-being in action.

Example: A college student who manages exam stress through coaching or mindfulness is protecting their mental well-being, learning more effectively, and building stronger friendships. Likewise, an employee who receives coaching support can bounce back from setbacks faster and stay more engaged at work.

In short, mental well-being is about resilience, satisfaction, and having the tools to navigate life’s ups and downs with confidence.

Why Mental Well-Being Matters (Life + Work)

Mental well-being matters because it impacts how we think, feel, and function every day. When mental well-being is strong, people handle stress better, communicate more calmly, solve problems faster, and stay motivated even during setbacks.

At work, mental well-being shapes productivity, relationships, leadership quality, and team culture. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to stay engaged, collaborate better, and perform consistently over time.

5 Simple Ways to Improve Mental Well-Being

Evidence-based frameworks often highlight five simple actions that support mental well-being: connect, be active, keep learning, give, and take notice (mindfulness). These are small steps, but when done regularly, they can make a big difference. (Source: NHS – 5 steps to mental wellbeing)

1) Connect with People

Good relationships support emotional strength. Talking to a friend, spending time with family, or even having lunch with a colleague can reduce loneliness and stress.

Example: If you feel low after a tough workday, a 10-minute call with someone you trust can instantly make you feel lighter.

2) Be Physically Active

Movement supports both mental health and stress management. You don’t need a gym. Walking, stretching, yoga, dancing, or cycling all count.

Example: A 20-minute walk after work helps many people calm their mind and sleep better.

3) Keep Learning

Learning builds confidence and purpose. Try a new recipe, a short online course, or a new skill at work. Even small learning keeps the mind active and positive.

4) Give and Help Others

Kindness builds meaning and improves emotional wellbeing. Help a colleague, volunteer, or simply listen to someone who needs support.

5) Take Notice (Mindfulness)

Mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment without judging yourself. Even 5 minutes of calm breathing can reduce stress and improve focus.

Quick tip: Try slow, deep breathing. It can support calmness and reduce stress responses.

Mental Well-Being in the Workplace

Mental well-being in the workplace means how employees feel emotionally, psychologically, and socially while doing their job. It affects focus, energy, motivation, teamwork, and how people handle pressure. When workplace wellbeing is strong, employees feel safer, more supported, and more engaged.

This is not a “soft topic.” The World Health Organization highlights that depression and anxiety lead to the loss of about 12 billion working days globally each year, costing around US$ 1 trillion in lost productivity. (Source: WHO – Mental health: strengthening our response)

In the U.S., data also shows that mental health conditions are common, which is why many employers are now prioritizing workplace wellbeing as part of business strategy.

What Leaders Can Do to Support Mental Well-Being

Leaders set the tone. Employees often take cues from managers about whether it’s safe to speak up, take breaks, or ask for support. When leaders act early, they reduce burnout and protect performance.

Create psychological safety: Encourage respectful communication and make it safe to raise concerns without fear.
Set realistic goals: Unclear priorities and constant urgency are major stress triggers. Set clear expectations and timelines.
Model healthy boundaries: If leaders message late at night, teams feel pressure to reply. Healthy boundaries protect work-life balance.
Notice early warning signs: Sudden drop in energy, irritability, isolation, frequent errors, or constant absenteeism may signal stress overload.
Support skill-building: Training in stress management, communication, and time planning helps teams stay steady during change.

Example: A sales manager notices a high performer is unusually quiet and missing targets. Instead of pushing harder, the manager has a private 1:1 conversation, reduces overload for two weeks, and connects the employee to coaching support. The employee recovers faster and returns to strong performance.

What HR Can Do to Improve Workplace Wellbeing

HR plays a key role in building systems that protect mental well-being across teams. The WHO guidelines on mental health at work emphasize organizational actions like improving work design, manager training, and worker support. (Source: WHO – Mental health at work)

Reduce workload risk: Review workloads, roles, and deadlines. Fix “always-on” culture and unclear responsibilities.
Train managers: Teach managers how to have supportive conversations, respond early, and guide employees to help.
Offer confidential support options: EAPs, counseling partnerships, or coaching and mentoring programs (with privacy).
Make policies practical: Flexible work options, mental health leave, return-to-work support after burnout.
Measure what matters: Pulse surveys, burnout risk checks, and feedback loops to improve mental health strategy.

Example: HR runs a quarterly “wellbeing pulse” survey. Results show one team has heavy workload pressure. HR works with leaders to reset priorities and adds coaching sessions for that team for 8 weeks. Within the next quarter, engagement improves and attrition reduces.

What Employees Can Do to Protect Their Mental Well-Being at Work

Even with great policies, employees still need daily habits that protect their energy and focus. These small actions support stress management and emotional resilience.

Set small boundaries: Block focus time, take breaks, and avoid multitasking all day.
Use quick reset tools: 2 minutes of deep breathing, short walk, or stretching between meetings.
Communicate early: If workload is too much, speak up before it becomes burnout.
Stay connected: Healthy relationships at work reduce stress and increase belonging.
Ask for help when needed: Support can be a mentor, manager, HR, coach, or a mental health professional.

Example: A software engineer feels overwhelmed during a product release. They speak to their manager, clarify priorities, and take short mindful breaks. This reduces stress and helps them deliver better quality work.

How Workplace Wellbeing Helps Organizations

Higher productivity: Better focus, fewer errors, stronger collaboration.
Lower absenteeism and presenteeism: People stop “working while unwell,” which is a major hidden cost.
Better retention: Employees stay longer when they feel supported.
Healthier leadership pipeline: Leaders with strong mental well-being make calmer, smarter decisions.

Research also shows that leadership support is a major factor in successful workplace mental health practices.

How to Improve Your Mental Well-Being Every Day

Improving your mental well-being is all about the small choices you make each day. Simple habits such as understanding your emotions, handling stress in healthy ways, solving problems calmly, communicating openly, building stronger relationships, staying present, practicing gratitude, and caring for your body can bring balance and happiness into your life. Let’s look at each of these steps more closely:

Understand and Accept Your Emotions

It’s normal to feel anxious, sad, or frustrated when life gets tough. The key is not to ignore those feelings but to notice them and accept them without judgment. Once you recognize your emotions, you can respond to them in healthier ways.

Check in with yourself: ask, “How am I really feeling today?”
Be kind to yourself instead of being overly critical.
Write down your thoughts or take a short walk to clear your mind.

Example: A student feeling nervous before exams takes a few minutes to breathe deeply and write down their worries. This helps calm the mind and restore focus.

Find Healthy Ways to Relieve Stress

Stress is part of life, but how you respond makes the difference. Instead of letting it overwhelm you, use positive outlets to release tension and reset your energy.

Keep a journal to express feelings and gain clarity.
Practice yoga, deep breathing, or short meditation sessions.
Do activities you enjoy—music, painting, gardening, or sports.

Example: After a long day, someone might choose a 15-minute walk over scrolling through their phone. That simple choice eases tension and boosts mental well-being.

Turn Problems into Opportunities

Challenges can feel heavy, but they also teach us resilience. Shifting your mindset from “this is a problem” to “what can I learn here?” helps you grow stronger and stay positive.

Look for solutions instead of only focusing on the issue.
Step back and see things from different angles.
Learn from mistakes—they are stepping stones for growth.

Example: An employee who misses a deadline reflects on what went wrong and uses the lesson to plan better next time. Instead of feeling stuck, they turn the setback into progress.

Communicate with Openness and Respect

Strong communication builds healthy relationships. When you share your feelings clearly and listen with empathy, you create trust and support that directly benefits your mental well-being.

Use “I” statements, like “I feel worried when…” instead of blaming.
Keep your tone calm and respectful.
Listen without interrupting, and show understanding.

Example: A friend who says, “I feel hurt when plans change suddenly,” is more likely to be heard and supported than if they stayed silent or reacted in anger.

Nurture Your Relationships

Connections with family, friends, or communities are a foundation of mental well-being. They provide belonging, joy, and emotional support when life feels challenging.

Spend quality time with loved ones regularly.
Join clubs, groups, or volunteer opportunities to meet new people.
Offer help and be present when others need support.

Example: Volunteering at a local school not only helps children learn but also gives the volunteer a sense of purpose and stronger community ties.

Live in the Present Moment

Mindfulness is the practice of noticing what’s happening right now—your thoughts, your body, and your surroundings. It helps reduce stress, improves focus, and allows you to appreciate life more fully.

Set aside 5–10 minutes daily to focus on your breath.
Observe your thoughts without labeling them as good or bad.
Bring your attention back whenever your mind wanders.

Example: A professional takes a short mindful pause before a meeting, which helps them feel calmer and more focused during discussions.

Practice Gratitude Daily

Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you already have. This positive outlook reduces stress and builds happiness in everyday life.

Keep a gratitude journal and write down 2–3 things you’re thankful for each day.
Send a thank-you message to someone who made a difference in your life.
Pause to appreciate small joys like a smile, a meal, or a sunset.

Example: Writing a weekly gratitude list reminds you of the good moments that often go unnoticed and uplifts your mental well-being.

Care for Your Body, Care for Your Mind

Your physical health and mental health are deeply connected. A healthy body gives you the energy and focus to handle challenges with ease.

Eat balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Get 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night.
Stay active with daily walks, stretches, or light exercise.
Avoid habits like smoking or heavy drinking, which harm both body and mind.

Example: Someone who improves their sleep schedule often notices better mood, focus, and resilience during the day.

Everyday habits like accepting emotions, relieving stress, solving problems, communicating openly, nurturing relationships, practicing mindfulness, showing gratitude, and taking care of your body can transform your mental well-being. Though small on their own, these steps add up to a stronger, healthier, and happier life.

Types of Mental Well-Being (With Examples)

Mental well-being is not just the absence of illness-it’s the presence of balance, purpose, and resilience in daily life. It shows up in the way we enjoy life, recover from challenges, set goals, and build strong relationships. These everyday experiences are signs that your mental well-being is in a healthy place.

Everyday Examples of Mental Well-Being

There are many ways to notice mental well-being in everyday life. It can be seen when someone:

Enjoys life: Feeling joy in small things like laughing with friends, enjoying a hobby, or taking a peaceful walk.
Bounces back from stress: Coping with sadness or challenges and regaining balance after setbacks.
Sets and achieves goals: Having the focus and motivation to work toward personal or professional milestones, often supported by leadership development programs.
Builds relationships: Maintaining healthy, supportive connections with family, friends, colleagues, or through a mentoring platform that fosters social support.

Example: Imagine an employee who loses a project but chooses to learn from the mistake, seeks feedback, and stays motivated to try again. This ability to recover, stay positive, and continue moving forward is a strong sign of mental well-being.

A Holistic View of Mental Well-Being

In many cultures, mental well-being is understood as a broad concept that goes beyond individual emotions. It includes social and emotional health, community belonging, and the ability to live with purpose. For example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities often describe it as “social and emotional well-being,” which reflects a more holistic view of health that includes family, culture, and community.

What Influences Mental Well-Being?

Mental well-being is shaped by several factors that interact with one another. These can be grouped into three main areas:

Structural factors: Safe living environments, good education, steady employment, access to healthcare, and freedom from discrimination or violence.
Community factors: A sense of belonging, cultural inclusion, social support, and opportunities to participate in meaningful activities.
Individual factors: The ability to manage thoughts, cope with stress, build resilience, and develop healthy communication and social skills.

Example: A student who has supportive friends, access to safe housing, and the confidence to manage exam stress is more likely to enjoy stronger mental well-being compared to someone who lacks these supports.

Mental well-being can be seen in everyday life—through enjoyment, resilience, goal-setting, and relationships. It is influenced not only by personal choices but also by the community and environment around us. When these factors work together, people are more likely to live balanced, purposeful, and connected lives.

How Coaching and Mentoring Support Mental Well-Being

Many people think mental well-being support means only therapy or medical help. But in daily life and at work, coaching and mentoring can also play an important role. They help people build clarity, confidence, emotional resilience, and better coping skills — especially during stress, change, burnout risk, or career transitions.

Workplace mental well-being matters because stress and mental health challenges affect productivity. The World Health Organization notes that depression and anxiety are linked to major productivity loss globally. (Source: WHO – Mental health: strengthening our response)

Coaching vs Therapy: What’s the Difference?

Therapy usually focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and deep emotional challenges. Coaching is future-focused and helps people improve skills, habits, thinking patterns, communication, and goal achievement.

Therapy: Clinical support for mental health conditions and emotional healing.
Coaching: Practical support for stress management, clarity, performance, habits, and growth.
Mentoring: Guidance from someone experienced who shares real-world learning, career insights, and direction.

Important: Coaching is not a replacement for clinical care. If someone has severe anxiety, depression, or crisis symptoms, professional medical help is the right step.

How Coaching Improves Mental Well-Being (Practical Ways)

Coaching supports mental well-being by helping people feel more in control. When you have clarity and a plan, stress reduces and confidence increases. Coaching can support:

Stress management: Identify stress triggers and create a healthier response plan.
Emotional resilience: Build the ability to recover from setbacks and handle pressure.
Better thinking patterns: Reduce overthinking and replace it with practical actions.
Communication skills: Handle difficult conversations with calm and respect.
Work-life balance: Set boundaries, manage time, and avoid burnout.
Confidence and motivation: Feel supported while working toward meaningful goals.

Example (India): A mid-level manager in Bengaluru feels constant pressure from deadlines. With coaching, they learn to prioritize tasks, set boundaries with meetings, and use a simple daily reset routine. Within a few weeks, they feel calmer, more focused, and more productive.

Example (USA): A team lead in Texas is struggling with burnout after back-to-back projects. Coaching helps them redesign their week, delegate better, and rebuild confidence. The result is stronger workplace wellbeing and improved team relationships.

How Mentoring Supports Mental Well-Being

Mentoring strengthens mental well-being in a different way. When people feel guided and supported, they feel less alone. A good mentor helps with direction, decision-making, and confidence.

Career clarity: Mentors help people understand options and plan next steps.
Real-world support: Mentors share what worked for them, so employees learn faster.
Confidence boost: A mentor’s encouragement can reduce self-doubt.
Belonging: Mentoring improves connection, which supports wellbeing.

Example: A new HR professional feels overwhelmed handling employee concerns. With a mentor, they learn how to manage tough conversations and set healthy boundaries, improving their confidence and emotional resilience.

Why Coaching Matters for Leaders and Managers

Leaders carry high pressure — targets, people management, and constant decision-making. Coaching helps leaders build calm thinking, self-awareness, and better leadership habits. This improves not only their own mental well-being, but also the wellbeing of their teams.

Better leadership presence: Leaders learn to respond instead of reacting.
Healthier team culture: Calm leaders create psychological safety.
Reduced burnout risk: Leaders learn boundaries and sustainable performance.

Practical insight: WHO guidance on mental health at work includes recommendations around improving working conditions and training managers — which aligns well with leadership coaching and manager development. (Source: WHO – Mental health at work)

How Organizations Can Use Coaching in Workplace Wellbeing Programs

Organizations can combine coaching with workplace wellbeing actions for stronger impact. A simple, practical approach looks like this:

Step 1: Identify main stress points (workload, unclear roles, poor communication, low support).
Step 2: Train managers to notice early warning signs and respond supportively (not as clinicians).
Step 3: Offer coaching and mentoring support (1:1 and group sessions).
Step 4: Reinforce habits using simple wellbeing frameworks like “connect, be active, keep learning, give, take notice.” (Source: NHS – 5 steps to mental wellbeing)

This creates a workplace culture where people feel supported, skilled, and more emotionally balanced — which strengthens mental well-being at scale.

Simple Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Well-Being

Taking care of your mental well-being is a personal journey—what works for one person may not work for another. The key is to explore simple, everyday habits that keep your mind healthy, balanced, and focused. Here are some practical ways you can care for your mental well-being every day:

Practice Gratitude

Gratitude helps shift your focus to the positive. You don’t have to wait for big events to be thankful—simple joys like good weather, finishing a task, or catching up with a friend matter just as much. Writing these moments in a gratitude journal can give you a boost on tough days.

Example: A professional who writes down three things they are grateful for each night notices a calmer mind and better sleep over time.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It’s okay to feel sad, anxious, or frustrated—you’re human. Bottling up emotions only makes them heavier. Instead, allow yourself to feel them, talk to someone you trust, or seek professional guidance when needed. Accepting emotions without judgment is a powerful way to protect your mental well-being.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep has a direct impact on mood, focus, and resilience. Poor sleep can lead to irritability, stress, and even long-term mental health challenges. Aim for 7–8 hours of quality rest, follow a regular sleep schedule, and reduce screen time before bed to improve your sleep quality.

Example: A student who sets a fixed bedtime and avoids late-night scrolling feels more energetic and less anxious during exams.

Stay Physically Active

Movement is medicine for the mind. Exercise releases endorphins, relieves stress, and improves decision-making. Even small steps—like a 10-minute walk, stretching at your desk, or dancing to your favorite music—can lift your mood and strengthen your mental well-being.

Explore structured programs such as leadership development workshops that also integrate well-being and resilience training.

Eat Nutritious Food

Your brain needs fuel to function well. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, proteins, and whole grains supports both mental and physical health. Nutrients like vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in reducing stress and anxiety while improving focus and mood.

Stay Hydrated

Water helps you stay alert, focused, and energized throughout the day. While coffee or tea can help in moderation, too much caffeine may increase tension or make you feel restless. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to care for your mental well-being.

Find Time to Relax

Relaxation recharges your mind and body. Explore what works best for you—yoga, meditation, journaling, listening to music, or deep breathing exercises. The key is consistency. Even 10 minutes of calm each day can help you manage stress and stay balanced.

Example: An employee who spends 15 minutes journaling after work finds it easier to switch off from office stress and enjoy family time.

Limit Screen Time

Spending too much time on phones, laptops, or TV can drain your energy and affect sleep. Try setting boundaries with gadgets—like no screens an hour before bed or using apps that track your usage. Limiting screen time creates more space for rest, hobbies, and real-world connections that support mental well-being.

Example: A young professional who replaces late-night scrolling with reading feels more refreshed in the mornings.

Connect with Nature

Nature has a calming effect on the mind. Whether it’s a morning walk in the park, gardening, or simply sitting outside for fresh air, spending time outdoors reduces stress and improves mood. Making nature a part of your routine is a natural way to care for your mental well-being.

Example: A retiree who spends 20 minutes in the garden daily notices reduced anxiety and greater peace of mind.

Taking care of your mental well-being doesn’t require big changes—it’s about small, steady habits. Practicing gratitude, acknowledging feelings, getting good sleep, moving your body, eating healthy food, staying hydrated, relaxing often, limiting screen time, and connecting with nature all add up to a healthier, more balanced life. By choosing a mix of these practices, you create a routine that supports your mind and helps you thrive.

When to Seek Professional Help for Mental Well-Being

Taking care of mental well-being includes knowing when self-care, coaching, or mentoring is enough — and when professional mental health support is the right step. Seeking help early can prevent stress or emotional challenges from becoming more serious.

Professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Just like physical health, mental health sometimes needs expert care.

Early Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

If these signs continue for two weeks or more, it may be time to seek professional support from a doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed counselor:

Constant sadness, anxiety, or emotional numbness
Sleep problems that don’t improve (insomnia or oversleeping)
Sudden changes in appetite or weight
Low energy, constant fatigue, or lack of motivation
Difficulty focusing, thinking clearly, or making decisions
Withdrawing from friends, family, or work
Loss of interest in activities that once felt meaningful

Example: An employee who was once engaged and productive now feels exhausted, disconnected, and unable to concentrate for weeks. Even after rest or coaching, the symptoms remain. This is a strong signal to seek professional mental health support.

Seek Immediate Help in a Crisis Situation

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following, seek immediate help:

Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Feeling hopeless, trapped, or unable to cope
Severe panic attacks or emotional distress
Sudden behavioral changes that feel unsafe

Emergency support:

United States: Call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)
India: Contact AASRA at +91-98204-66726 (24/7)
Emergency: Call your local emergency number immediately

Your life matters. Reaching out during a crisis can save lives.

How Coaching Fits with Professional Mental Health Care

Coaching and mentoring can strongly support mental well-being, especially for stress management, emotional resilience, confidence, and workplace challenges. However, they are not replacements for medical or clinical treatment.

Coaching helps with: stress management, clarity, confidence, communication, work-life balance, and personal growth
Clinical care helps with: diagnosed mental health conditions, trauma, severe anxiety, depression, or crisis situations

Best practice: Many people benefit from using both together — professional mental health care for treatment, and coaching for long-term growth and resilience.

Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture Around Mental Health

Organizations play a powerful role in encouraging employees to seek help early. A supportive culture reduces stigma and promotes healthier outcomes.

Normalize conversations around mental well-being
Encourage employees to ask for help without fear
Provide access to professional resources and coaching support
Train managers to respond with empathy, not judgment

Example: A company openly shares mental health resources and encourages leaders to talk about well-being. Employees feel safer seeking help early, reducing long-term burnout and absenteeism.

Remember: Mental well-being improves when people feel supported, informed, and empowered to take the right steps at the right time.

uExcelerate Mental Well-Being Program

The uExcelerate Mental Well-Being Program is designed to support individuals and organizations in building long-term emotional balance, resilience, and sustainable performance. Instead of focusing only on short-term wellness activities, the program combines coaching, mentoring, leadership development, and practical well-being habits to create meaningful and lasting impact.

Our approach recognizes that mental well-being is influenced by daily habits, work environment, leadership behavior, and access to the right support systems. That’s why uExcelerate focuses on both individual growth and organizational culture.

A Balanced and Responsible Approach to Mental Well-Being

Not every mental health challenge needs the same kind of support. Some situations require clinical or medical care, while others benefit from coaching, mentoring, or leadership guidance.

uExcelerate follows a responsible model:

✔ Coaching and mentoring for stress management, clarity, confidence, and growth
✔ Leadership and manager development to create psychologically safe workplaces
✔ Awareness and education to help people recognize early warning signs
✔ Clear guidance on when professional or medical help is needed

Important: Coaching supports mental well-being but does not replace medical or clinical care. When symptoms are intense, long-lasting, or disruptive, professional mental health support is essential.

Key Components of the uExcelerate Mental Well-Being Program

Mindfulness and Emotional Resilience Training: Practical tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and stay focused under pressure.
1:1 Coaching Support: Confidential coaching sessions that help individuals build clarity, confidence, and healthier thinking patterns.
Mentoring for Growth and Belonging: Access to experienced mentors who guide career decisions, build confidence, and reduce isolation.
Leadership and Manager Enablement: Training leaders to recognize stress signals, support teams early, and lead with empathy.
Work-Life Balance Practices: Habit-based frameworks that help employees set boundaries and avoid burnout.
Well-Being Education: Sessions on emotional health, self-care, stress awareness, and sustainable performance.

Example: An organization introduces monthly coaching sessions combined with manager training. Employees report reduced stress, clearer priorities, and better communication within teams within a few months.

Who This Program Is Designed For

The uExcelerate Mental Well-Being Program supports a wide range of roles and career stages:

CXOs and Senior Leaders: Managing pressure, decision fatigue, and leadership responsibility
Managers and Team Leads: Supporting team wellbeing while meeting performance goals
HR Professionals: Building sustainable workplace wellbeing strategies
Employees and Emerging Leaders: Managing stress, confidence, and career growth

This makes the program suitable for both India and USA–based organizations with diverse teams and working styles.

When Professional Mental Health Support Is Needed

While coaching and mentoring are powerful tools, there are situations where professional medical or psychological support is the right next step.

Encourage professional help if someone experiences:

Persistent anxiety, sadness, or emotional distress lasting more than two weeks
Severe sleep problems, panic attacks, or constant exhaustion
Loss of interest in work, relationships, or daily activities
Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness

uExcelerate strongly encourages individuals and organizations to treat seeking professional help as a sign of strength, not weakness. Our programs complement — not replace — clinical care.

Benefits for Individuals and Organizations

For Individuals: Better stress management, improved emotional balance, stronger confidence, and higher resilience.
For Organizations: Improved engagement, lower burnout risk, stronger leadership, better retention, and healthier workplace culture.

Example: A company using the uExcelerate Mental Well-Being Program observed improved employee satisfaction scores and reduced burnout indicators within six months.

Why Organizations Choose uExcelerate

✔ Digital coaching platform that scales across teams
✔ Certified coaches and experienced mentors
✔ Strong focus on leadership and workplace wellbeing
✔ Practical, non-clinical, and business-aligned approach
✔ Trusted by organizations for leadership and mental well-being support

The uExcelerate Mental Well-Being Program helps organizations move beyond awareness into action — creating workplaces where people feel supported, focused, and capable of performing at their best.

Employee Mental well-being Speakers:

Poonam Dhanavati – Head HR Software Division Stellantis (IAP and China)
Chanchal Chandiok – HR Director at NEC Software Solutions (India)
Vivek Balokhra (He/Him/His) – Senior Manager – Sunlife
Biresh Ranjan Das – Head HR- Indorama Ventures Global Business Services

Moderator: Kavita Alwa – Behavioral and Gallup Strengths, Coach at OSEL Consulting

Employee Mental well-being is important because it directly impacts productivity, retention, and overall performance. Prioritizing Mental well-being creates a positive work environment, improves work-life balance, enhances employee engagement, and fosters collaboration and communication within teams (Grawitch et al., 2006). In today’s context, employee mental well-being is crucial for organizational success, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic has caused increased stress, anxiety, and uncertainty among employees worldwide (Hamouche, 2020).

To support employees, offering coaching can provide a valuable resource for them to navigate challenges and adapt to changes. Coaching offers a safe space for emotional expression, goal exploration, and skill development, promoting resilience, confidence, and motivation. enhance individual and team performance, engagement, and collaboration, recognizing the importance of employee well-being in their organizations.

Context:

In recognition of Mental Health Month and the challenges posed by the transition to the new normal of workplaces, a panel discussion was organized. Esteemed advocates from the field of human resources were invited to share their experiences of implementing coaching in their organizations. The focus of the discussion was on employee mental well-being and the pivotal role of coaching in addressing this important aspect. Four experts joined forces to impart their knowledge and insights into navigating the field of employee mental well-being and leveraging coaching to tackle these challenges effectively.

Key Takeaways of Employee Mental Well-Being

What is employee well-being?

Employee mental well-being refers to a comprehensive approach that focuses on ensuring employees feel mentally, physically, and emotionally satisfied while also feeling safe in their work environment. It goes beyond mere satisfaction to create a supportive atmosphere where employees feel valued, supported, and able to thrive both personally and professionally. This involves promoting a positive work culture, offering resources for physical and mental health, encouraging a healthy work-life balance, fostering open communication, and prioritizing employee growth. Prioritizing employee well-being leads to increased productivity, engagement, and overall success for both individuals and organizations.

How much does stress, anxiety and burnout affect employees productivity and how can employee mental well-being help?

Sometimes, individuals may not be aware of the challenges they face regarding their mental well-being. But the decreasing mental health actually creates a domino effect and impacts the life of an individual. It’s important to recognize that mental well-being not only impacts our work life but also our personal life. The pandemic resulted in increased physical distance between team members, now with the virtual offices and the “new normal” becoming the norm. This shift, combined with the pressure of work and the stress it brings, has further exacerbated the difficulties individuals face, leading to burnout and impacting their overall well-being in both professional and personal domains.

How does this disturbed mental state affect the working environment between employees?

The impact on mental health can make it challenging for individuals to concentrate and multitask, despite their intentions. It can lead to self-esteem challenges and strained relationships among employees. Consequently, this significantly affects the overall working environment, as productivity and harmonious collaboration may be compromised. Prioritizing mental health support and fostering a supportive work environment can help alleviate these difficulties and promote a healthier and more productive atmosphere for employees.

What are Organizations doing to address the mental well being of employees?

Organizations can take several steps to address the mental well-being of employees. Firstly, they can conduct anonymous surveys to gather insights into stress levels and employee comfort, enabling them to identify areas of concern. Introducing mindful activities such as Zumba or other wellness classes can promote physical well-being and provide a break from daily stressors. Annual health checkups that include mental health awareness exercises can help employees understand and prioritize their mental well-being. It is beneficial for organizations to appoint mental health counselors or coaches who can provide guidance and support to employees facing challenges. Fostering open communication, collaboration, competency development, and a safe work environment encourages employees to express their thoughts and concerns. By implementing these strategies, organizations can actively prioritize and support employee mental well-being.

How does coaching help in employee mental well-being?

Coaching is a highly effective and personalized intervention that operates on a one-to-one basis. It offers a confidential space where individuals can explore and develop the right attitude and excitement towards life. By working closely with the coachee, coaching aims to enhance tolerance, resilience, and a solution-driven mindset. The success of coaching depends on the individual’s willingness to open up and engage in the process, ultimately building their capacity for personal growth and development.

How important is it to develop a coaching culture in the organization?

Developing a coaching culture in an organization is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it creates an environment where individuals feel supported and empowered to reach their full potential. By promoting early intervention and identification of challenges, a coaching culture can address issues proactively and prevent them from escalating. Additionally, it fosters mental health awareness, ensuring that employees’ well-being is prioritized and supported. A coaching culture also enhances employee engagement and productivity, as individuals receive personalized guidance and support to excel in their roles. Moreover, it contributes to the development of managerial and leadership skills, empowering leaders to effectively guide and inspire their teams. Overall, establishing a coaching culture is instrumental in creating a positive and thriving organizational environment.

What is your opinion on ‘Coaching should be available to all the employees and not only restricted to the CXO level’?

“Coaching is unlocking a person’s potential to maximize their own performance.” – Sir John Whitmore

The opinion is that coaching should not be limited to the CXO level but made accessible to all employees within an organization. It is believed that coaching has the potential to unlock the performance and potential of individuals at every level. By extending coaching opportunities to all employees, organizations can foster personal and professional growth, enhance overall performance, and drive success. However, it is also important to emphasize that the key lies in how organizations adapt coaching to their specific context and needs. Leaders need to recognize the value of coaching and be willing to provide support and guidance to employees across all levels. By embracing coaching and tailoring it to their unique circumstances, organizations can cultivate a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and empowerment, ultimately maximizing the collective potential of their workforce.

Mental well-being and a positive working environment: How deep is the connection?

The connection between mental well-being and a positive working environment is significant and deeply intertwined. A positive workplace is characterized by:

supportive leadership
effective workload management
employees feeling a sense of belonging

It fosters a culture of support where employees feel psychologically safe to share their ideas and concerns. Building strong relationships and social connections at work further contribute to a positive environment. Recognizing and providing feedback on employees’ contributions, as well as promoting work-life balance, are essential elements that reduce mental health challenges. When organizations prioritize creating a positive working environment, they actively contribute to the mental well-being of their employees.

uExcelerate – a Digital Leadership Coaching Platform

uExcelerate, a Digital Leadership Coaching Platform, offers a comprehensive set of solutions to support organizations in building a coaching culture and fostering personalized talent development. Through our SaaS platform, we provide customized and holistic approaches to help organizations scale their coaching initiatives.

Our product offerings include:

APPRAISE – Coaching Culture Maturity Model: This tool enables organizations to assess their current stage of coaching culture maturity based on our 7C framework. It provides valuable insights to guide the development and implementation of coaching initiatives.
DISCOVER – Coaching Marketplace: Connect your employees with a diverse pool of experienced and certified external coaches who can cater to specific coaching requirements within your organization. This marketplace allows for personalized coaching engagements.
SYMPHONY – Coaching Platform: Launch on-demand one-on-one and/or group coaching programs by leveraging internal leaders as coaches and employees as coachees. This platform facilitates effective coaching engagements within your organization.
PACE – Coaching Programs: We offer a range of coaching programs, including leadership development, DE&I (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), mental well-being, and high-performance acceleration. These programs address key areas of growth and development for leaders and employees.

Through PACE, employees have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one coaching sessions with certified coaches who specialize in mental well-being. These coaches provide personalized coaching, support, and strategies to help individuals manage their mental health effectively, build resilience, and develop coping mechanisms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Mental Well-Being

1. What is mental well-being in simple words?

Mental well-being means feeling balanced, calm, and able to handle daily stress. It helps you think clearly, manage emotions, build relationships, and stay motivated at work and in life.

2. How is mental well-being different from mental health?

Mental health is a broad term that includes emotional, psychological, and social health. Mental well-being focuses more on daily balance, resilience, happiness, and how well you cope with challenges.

3. What are the 5 simple ways to improve mental well-being?

Evidence-based frameworks highlight five key actions: connect with people, stay physically active, keep learning, give to others, and practice mindfulness (taking notice of the present moment).

4. Why is mental well-being important in the workplace?

Mental well-being at work improves focus, productivity, teamwork, and job satisfaction. When employees feel supported, organizations see better engagement, lower burnout, and stronger retention.

5. How can employees improve their mental well-being at work?

Employees can protect their mental well-being by setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, managing workload early, practicing stress management, staying connected with colleagues, and asking for support when needed.

6. What role do leaders and managers play in workplace wellbeing?

Leaders influence workplace culture. By creating psychological safety, setting realistic expectations, supporting work-life balance, and encouraging open conversations, leaders help teams stay mentally healthy and resilient.

7. Can coaching really help with mental well-being?

Yes. Coaching supports mental well-being by improving clarity, confidence, emotional resilience, stress management, and work-life balance. It helps people handle pressure better and build healthier habits.

8. Is coaching the same as therapy?

No. Coaching focuses on future goals, habits, and performance, while therapy treats mental health conditions and emotional distress. Coaching does not replace medical or clinical care.

9. When should someone seek professional mental health help?

If feelings like anxiety, sadness, exhaustion, or loss of motivation last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.

10. Can organizations combine coaching with professional mental health support?

Yes. Many organizations successfully combine coaching, mentoring, and leadership development with professional mental health resources to create a complete workplace wellbeing approach.

11. How does mental well-being affect productivity and performance?

Strong mental well-being improves focus, decision-making, communication, and energy levels. Poor mental well-being often leads to burnout, absenteeism, and reduced performance.

12. What is the first small step to improve mental well-being today?

Start with one simple habit—take a short walk, breathe deeply for a few minutes, talk to someone you trust, or take a mindful pause. Small steps done regularly create lasting improvement.

For expert guidance on improving mental well-being and building stronger leadership skills for growth, connect with uExcelerate. We are recognized as one of India’s leading providers of leadership and mental well-being coaching, trusted by organizations to create healthier, more resilient workplaces. As a top digital coaching platform, we help individuals and teams unlock their potential, manage stress effectively, and drive sustainable success.

Start your mental well-being and leadership development journey with uExcelerate today!

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