When you think of ergonomics, you might picture adjustable chairs, correct desk setups, or manual handling training. But ergonomics isn’t just about physical health, it has a profound impact on mental wellbeing too. In fact, the connection between how people work and how they feel is stronger than many employers realise.
The Link Between Ergonomics and Mental Health
- Physical Strain Fuels Stress
Poor workplace setups often lead to discomfort, fatigue, and musculoskeletal issues. Over time, these physical problems contribute to increased stress levels, frustration, and reduced resilience at work. Employees struggling with constant pain or discomfort are more likely to report feelings of anxiety or low mood.
- Productivity and Confidence
When employees can’t perform tasks efficiently due to poor ergonomics, their confidence and productivity can suffer. This can cause feelings of inadequacy or work-related stress, even if the issue is purely environmental rather than a reflection of their abilities.
- The Homeworking Challenge
With hybrid and remote working now common, many employees are working from dining chairs or makeshift home setups. While it may seem minor, prolonged poor posture and unsuitable workstations can increase physical discomfort, which in turn undermines mental health and wellbeing.
- Prevention Over Reaction
When ergonomic needs are overlooked, it often results in higher sickness absence, workplace adjustments, and compensation claims. The stress of these situations impacts both employers and employees, creating unnecessary strain that could have been prevented with early ergonomic support.
How Acorn’s Ergonomic Services Can Help
At Acorn Occupational Health, we recognise that good ergonomics is not just about reducing physical injury, it’s also about supporting employee mental health. Our ergonomic services are designed to take a proactive approach, helping employers create healthier, safer, and more supportive workplaces.
DSE (Display Screen Equipment) Assessments
We help identify risks in workstation setups and provide practical, tailored solutions – whether in the office or at home. Correct DSE setups reduce strain, improve comfort, and help employees feel more supported and valued.
Functional Capacity Assessments
These assessments measure an employee’s ability to perform work tasks, particularly after injury or illness. By understanding physical capabilities, employers can make informed decisions about return-to-work plans, reducing stress and uncertainty for the employee.
Manual Handling Training
Manual Handling Training ensures employees can complete physical tasks safely and confidently. By teaching correct techniques, it reduces the risk of injury and helps staff feel more secure in their roles. This not only improves physical safety but also provides peace of mind, which can positively influence overall workplace morale.
Process Assessments
Process Assessments look at the way tasks are carried out, identifying risks and opportunities to improve efficiency. By ensuring processes are safe and practical, these assessments lower the likelihood of injury while supporting smoother workflows. A safer, more organised workplace contributes to greater confidence, reduced stress, and improved employee wellbeing.
Creating Workplaces That Support the Whole Person
By addressing ergonomics, employers aren’t just preventing musculoskeletal problems, they’re fostering a culture where employees feel physically comfortable, mentally supported, and able to perform at their best.
At Acorn, we combine clinical expertise with practical solutions to help employers take a holistic approach to workplace wellbeing.
👉 If you’d like to find out more about how our ergonomic services can support both the physical and mental health of your workforce, get in touch with our team today.
📧 website@acornoh.co.uk
📞 01260 277797