Work-Life Balance: 10 Easy Habits to Prioritise Mental Health

Overview

Work-life balance essentially refers to having sufficient time and energy dedicated to both your professional responsibilities and personal life. This balance is crucial as it promotes better mental health, enhances productivity, and contributes to overall well-being.

Many Australians face challenges such as extended work hours, rising living expenses, family responsibilities, and the persistent concerns associated with remote or hybrid work.

The encouraging news is that small, practical adjustments can meaningfully improve work-life balance over time, added registered psychotherapist Amira Shah.

What does poor work-life balance look like?

• Continuous exhaustion
• Challenges in unwinding
• Insufficient time for hobbies or social relationships
• Work encroaching on personal time
• Signs of stress or burnout

Why work-life balance matters for mental health

• Reduces stress and tension
• Enhances the quality of sleep
• Aids in avoiding burnout
• Fosters healthy relationships
• Increases overall happiness, motivation, and energy levels

Easy habits to improve work-life balance

Establish clear work boundaries

Establishing boundaries helps create a clearer separation between work and personal life.

• Refrain from checking emails outside working hours
• Set specific start and finish times
• Inform your team of your availability

Take consistent breaks

Frequent short breaks keep your mind sharp and reduce stress.

• Consider trying the Pomodoro technique
• Incorporate brief stretching or movement breaks

Safeguard your weekends

Rest is vital for effective recovery.

• Ensure at least one completely work-free day
• Engage in hobbies, family time, or relaxation

Dedicate daily ‘me time’

Even brief moments of self-care can make a notable difference.

• Activities like reading, meditation, or walking
• Aids in calming your mind and elevating focus

Stay active

Physical exercise elevates mood and diminishes stress.

• Activities like walking, yoga, or going to the gym
• Adhere to Australian guidelines¹: 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week for adults

Manage your workload

Intelligent planning helps prevent feeling overwhelmed.

• Distinguish between urgent and important tasks
• Utilise simple planning tools
• Practice saying “no” when necessary

Minimise screen time

Excessive screen exposure can disrupt sleep and increase stress.

• Limit phone use or social media browsing
• Establish digital-free areas, such as the bedroom or dining table

Maintain connections

Having social support is a significant protective factor for mental health.

• Spend quality time with family or friends
• Participate in clubs or community organisations

This helps alleviate loneliness and fosters a sense of belonging.

Design a healthy home-work environment

A good setup promotes comfort and focus.

• Implement basic ergonomic adjustments
• Have a dedicated workspace if working from home

Seek assistance when necessary

Support is accessible, and reaching out early can avert burnout.

• Discuss adjustments with your manager
• Utilise workplace Employee Assistance Programs
• Consult an online GP or mental health professional

Work-life balance in Australia: your rights

Australian workplace laws provide protections that help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance, including:

• Restrictions on unreasonable overtime
• Right to request flexible working hours
• Access to paid annual leave and sick leave
• Ability to respectfully raise concerns in the workplace

Healthy vs unhealthy work-life balance

Understanding the difference between a healthy and unhealthy work-life balance can help identify when adjustments may be needed.

When to consult a GP

Consulting a GP or psychologist may be beneficial if you experience:

• Persistent feelings of burnout
• Struggles to manage work demands
• Difficulty with sleep
• Anxiety , low mood, or irritability
• Loss of motivation or emotional fatigue

How Hola Health can help

Hola Health facilitates accessible mental health support by providing:

• Online consultations with GPs
• Referrals for psychology through Mental Health Treatment Plans
• Assistance with stress, anxiety , burnout, and insomnia
• Convenient telehealth services available throughout Australia

Conclusion

Achieving a healthy work-life balance isn't about reaching an ideal state; it involves making small, consistent choices that safeguard your energy, mental health, and overall wellness.

By establishing boundaries, taking regular breaks, maintaining connections with others, and seeking support when necessary, you can develop a more sustainable routine that feels peaceful, satisfying, and manageable.

If stress or burnout becomes too much to handle, consulting a GP or mental health professional can offer clarity, guidance, and practical assistance.

FAQs

What is the fastest approach to improving work-life balance?

Begin by establishing simple boundaries, such as a consistent finishing time every day.

How can I create healthy work boundaries?

Clearly communicate your working hours and avoid checking emails after hours.

Can a poor work-life balance impact mental health?

Yes, it raises the risk of stress, burnout, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

What indicators suggest I may be approaching burnout?

Symptoms include exhaustion, irritability, diminished motivation, and feelings of disconnection.

Can an online GP assist with stress management?

Definitely. They can evaluate symptoms, offer guidance, and develop Mental Health Treatment Plans.