Mental Health in the AEC – 3 Tips to Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Almost everyone experiences periods of stress at work. Feeling the pressure of a demanding job is normal, but excessive stress can negatively affect your mental and physical well-being. Numerous studies have confirmed that job-related stress is a significant source of stress for American adults, and these numbers have been steadily increasing in recent decades. Job-related stress is estimated to cost the U.S. economy over $300 billion annually.   

So, how can you effectively manage work-related stress? How can you establish a work-life balance that promotes good mental health? Consider the following three tips for implementing healthy strategies to achieve and maintain work-life balance.  

Establish Boundaries

Whether you work from home or in an office, establishing boundaries is essential to distinguish between “home time” and “office time.” Once you’re finished with work for the day, make a conscious effort to truly disconnect. Put your laptop away, disable email notifications, and remind yourself that you can attend to any messages the following morning. Allowing your mind and body to recharge at the end of the day or over the weekend will ensure that you start each day with renewed energy. 

Assess Your Priorities to Be More Efficient

Your work-life balance can suffer when you struggle to concentrate or complete tasks efficiently. Begin by identifying your top priorities for the day. Determine where you can compromise and where you cannot, and then act. To boost productivity, consider focusing on one task at a time. Set a timer for the task, perhaps for 45 minutes to an hour, and make a note of any distracting thoughts while you work so that you can address them later.  

Rest – Use Your Days Off

 According to a Pew Research survey in 2023, 46% of Americans don’t use all of their paid time off (PTO). A majority of Americans, 68%, reported working on their vacation days. These patterns can rapidly lead to workplace burnout and harm your work-life balance. Don’t let your vacation or sick time days roll over. Embrace these opportunities for time off, even if it means spending a day at home with family, friends, or even indulging in a movie. We all need breaks every now and then.  

A healthy work-life balance looks different for each person, but the bottom line is that a balance will enhance not only your mental well-being but also boost your productivity and job satisfaction. Remember to regularly assess your own needs and determine the most effective methods to maintain your overall health. 

For more insight into mental health within the AEC Industry, watch our free webinar Live Your Life Well: Mental Health Awareness in the AEC Industry Panel Discussion.