Recent research has revealed the effect that using technology in the workplace has on employee’s mental health. It suggests that although nearly 60% of senior decision makers said technology had “adverse effects” on mental wellbeing and work-life balance, less than a quarter of workers felt they could talk to their employers about these issues. The HR company therefore suggests more user-friendly programmes where employees can have access to information on the maintenance of psychological well-being, among other things.
There has been significant evidence exploring mindfulness interventions suggesting that they positively contribute to providing a foundation for change not only mentally but physically. It has been indicated that mindfulness-based meditation may influence neuroplastic changes in the brain regions that control attention, emotional regulation and self-awareness. That is to say, meditation can positively affect and change what we attend to as well as allowing us to have more control over our emotions.
Emotion regulation refers to strategies that can influence which emotions arise and when, how long they occur, and how these emotions are expressed. More specifically, research has been conducted focusing on mindfulness online programs and their efficacy. This research has investigated the effects on clinical and non-clinical populations and showed that it reduced symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression from an online mindfulness course.
While CMCBP specialises in workplace behaviour and attitudes, it is important to recognise how this stress and anxiety, often instigated at work, can affect personal life. Below is a list of apps available online to help with stress management (and a lot more) through meditation and having a few moments for yourself.
Headspace
- Uses meditation to manage stress and anxieties but can work for a wider range of mental and physical health conditions. The app uses several components from genuine mindfulness-based therapies used for management of different mental health issues such as stress related to work, anxiety, insomnia etc. Action for Happiness
- Sends out daily actions and ideas in order to help boost wellbeing and the spread of happiness. The app allows for goal setting and sharing your own actions and ideas with others. Each month follows a specific theme based on the latest scientific research about happiness.
WOOP
- Evidence based mental strategy app that you can use to find and fulfil wishes and habits. App designed for personal and professional goal setting, aims to help you achieve goals. The app guides you through the four steps of WOOP (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan).
Mind Tools
- Tailored for careers and business, this app offers a wide range of skill-building resources focused on leadership and personal excellence. Makes learning easy and accessible for those leading busy lives – designed for those with work-related challenges that need solving or for personal learning plans.
Calm
- No. 1 app for sleep, meditation and relaxation. It offers breathing programs, stretching exercises and relaxing music. Guided meditations are available to experience less stress, less anxiety and better sleep. It also allows you to track activity in order to promote progress.
Written by Siobhan Headd
