At Work OH&S

24/07/2025

It’s Friday - and that deserves a moment of pause. The end of the workweek is more than just a milestone on the calendar. It’s an opportunity to step back, reflect, and allow yourself the time and space to recharge.

After five days of meetings, emails, problem-solving, and multitasking, it’s easy to carry the busyness into the weekend without ever really switching off. But rest isn't a luxury - it's essential.

Whether it’s enjoying a quiet coffee, spending time with loved ones, going for a walk in nature, or simply doing nothing at all, take the time to do what helps you feel grounded and restored.

Remember: productivity isn’t just about how much you get done - it’s also about how well you care for your energy, focus, and mental health. So as the week wraps up, give yourself permission to rest, recharge, and reset. You’ve earned it.

21/07/2025

Psychosocial stressors are a leading contributor to mental health-related sick leave in Australian workplaces. High job demands, limited support from colleagues or managers, and low job satisfaction are all key factors driving time off due to mental illness. These issues not only affect employee wellbeing, they also impact productivity, retention, and workplace culture.

An Australian study published in "BMC Public Health" evaluated interventions designed to reduce sick leave among individuals experiencing mental health conditions. The findings showed that several strategies can make a meaningful difference, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Problem-Solving Therapy
• Enhanced care co-ordination
• Workplace-focused programs
• Group-based stress management

These evidence-based approaches highlight the importance of addressing mental health proactively, both clinically and at the organisational level.

If your workplace is facing challenges with mental health-related sick leave, At Work OH&S can assist. We provide expert support in managing psychosocial risks, designing return-to-work programs, and creating safer, more supportive work environments.

Reach out today for tailored solutions:https://hubs.ly/Q03xcx2J0

16/07/2025

We’ve recently partnered with The Distribution & Logistics Company to implement a 10-minute pre-shift stretching, mobility, and activation program for their warehouse team.

In a physically demanding environment with tasks like container unloading, stock picking, and pallet building, this proactive approach has been introduced. The program aims to reduce injury risk, improve mobility, and help staff prepare physically for each shift and is a practical and sustainable investment for this company in worker health.

Developed and delivered by our qualified Exercise Physiologist, Emma Haddad - (https://hubs.ly/Q03xpgh80) some of the program highlights include -

- Tailoring for warehouse operations
- Targeting injury prevention, task readiness, and body awareness
- Supervisor training included

Now's the time to be proactive and reduce your injury risk, If you would like more information on bringing this kind of program to your workplace please reach out - https://hubs.ly/Q03xpjJ30

14/07/2025

Today’s workforce is the most generationally diverse in history. Successful leadership requires recognising the unique motivators, needs, and communication styles across four different generations. With Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z all sharing the same workplace, it’s more important than ever for managers to understand how to navigate different values, work styles, and communication preferences.

Here are 4 key strategies to help bridge generational gaps:

1. Flexibility is Key – Different generations value different things (e.g. work-life balance vs. job security). Offer flexible policies where possible.
2. Tailor Communication – Boomers might prefer face-to-face, while Gen Z is all about instant messaging. Know your team’s style.
3. Cross-Generational Mentoring – Encourage knowledge sharing both ways - everyone has something to teach.
4. Recognise and Value Diversity – Respect individual strengths and avoid assumptions based on age.

Managers, be aware of unconscious bias and generational stereotypes. Fostering an inclusive, respectful culture is essential for collaboration and retention.

If you need help creating a more cohesive and productive workplace culture, the team at At Work OH&S is here to support you. Get in touch - https://hubs.ly/Q03w8f9M0

[Image credit - Justin Hills]

09/07/2025

Trauma doesn’t always leave visible scars but its impact runs deep.

Whether it’s the result of a single incident or prolonged stress, trauma can change the way we think, feel, and function in everyday life.

Some people may experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a serious condition that can cause flashbacks, anxiety, nightmares, emotional numbness, or hypervigilance. Others may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unable to cope long after the event has passed.

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to face it alone. Healing from trauma takes time, care, and the right support. And recovery is absolutely possible.

If you or someone you know is struggling after a traumatic event, whether it happened at work or elsewhere reaching out for help is a powerful first step.

At At Work OH&S, we offer confidential, compassionate support to help you understand and manage trauma and PTSD. Our mental health professionals provide guidance, tools, and tailored strategies to support your recovery and wellbeing.

You’re not broken. You’re healing. And support is available. Get the support you deserve: https://hubs.ly/Q03w8k590


[Image credit: Black Dog Insitute]

07/07/2025

Sitting is the new smoking - and it's slowly damaging our health.

Physical inactivity is now the 4th leading cause of death globally. And the culprit? Hours of uninterrupted sitting at work. Our bodies weren’t made to be still for most of the day. Research is clear - prolonged sitting increases the risk of chronic disease, fatigue, and burnout.

The upside? You can turn things around with a few simple changes, no gym required. Try working these habits into your day:

- Take a short walk during meetings instead of sitting at your desk
- Do light mobility exercises while waiting for your coffee or tea
- Switch between sitting and standing every hour
- Walk a lap around the office or home between tasks
- Schedule "movement breaks" into your calendar
- Stand or pace while brainstorming or problem-solving
- Use a headset and walk during longer conversations
- Start or end your day with a 10-minute walk to clear your mind

Small steps lead to lasting change. More ideas on how to move more during your work day are in the image below [Credit Victoria Repa].

At At Work OH&S, we’re passionate about building healthier, safer workplaces. Whether you’re an individual or a business, we can help you move more and live better. Learn how we can support your wellbeing: https://hubs.ly/Q03vl_Sh0

01/07/2025

Workplace injuries can have a serious impact on your team's health and productivity - especially in roles that involve regular lifting or physical strain. One proven way to reduce the risk? A structured pre-shift stretching program.

At Work OH&S offers tailored workplace stretch programs designed and led by accredited Exercise Physiologist Emma Haddad - https://hubs.ly/Q03tvBLp0. With Emma’s expertise in injury prevention and functional movement, your team can start each shift with the tools they need to move safely and confidently.

Whether you're in warehousing, logistics, construction or manufacturing, investing in your staff's wellbeing now can prevent costly injuries later.

Learn how to implement a stretch program tailored to your workplace: Get in touch with the team today - https://hubs.ly/Q03tvzQW0

29/06/2025

One of our team members recently returned from time in Italy - and it’s been a timely reminder that in the midst of all that’s happening around us, happiness isn’t about doing more. It’s about noticing more. Savouring more, and living with intention.

Inspired by Italian wisdom, here are 6 concepts that can shift how you experience life - without changing your entire life:

1. "Il dolce far niente" – The sweetness of doing nothing - Schedule downtime. Make space for stillness.

2. "Festina lente" – Make haste, slowly - Focus on direction, not speed. Progress doesn’t have to be loud.

3. "Fare una passeggiata" – Go for a walk - Movement calms the mind. Walking is free therapy.

4. "Lupus in fabula" – The wolf in the fairytale - Be ready for change. Anticipating the unexpected builds resilience.

5. "Sprezzatura" – Making it look effortless - Mastery takes practice. Over time, effort becomes ease.

6. "La vita è bella"– Life is beautiful - Pause to enjoy the everyday: a good coffee, a long sunset, a laugh.

Joy isn’t found in rushing. It’s found in savouring. The way you live each day shapes the quality of your life. Small steps done consistently can change everything.

If you're having trouble coping - whether it’s burnout, stress, or simply feeling stuck, support is available. Visit https://hubs.ly/Q03tvkrG0

[Credit to Priyamvada S for the inspiration]

25/06/2025

How mentally healthy is your workplace?

Mental health training isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. It builds awareness, reduces stigma, and helps create safer, more supportive teams.

With most of us spending a third of our adult lives at work, fostering mentally healthy workplaces is more important than ever. Strong, informed leadership is key. Leaders who prioritise mental wellbeing can shape healthier, more resilient work environments.

We collaborate with your organisation to provide tailored mental health training, delivered in-house or online to support and strengthen your team. Learn more about our approach and how we can help your team thrive: https://hubs.ly/Q03tvCRh0



[Image source Dog Institute]

23/06/2025

At Work OH&S offers expert exercise physiology services designed to support your recovery and long-term wellbeing. Our personalised programs focus on safe and effective rehabilitation to ensure effective recovery and facilitate an appropriate return-to-work, whether you're managing a chronic condition, recovering from surgery, or rebuilding after injury.

Led by dedicated professionals like Emma Awad - https://hubs.ly/Q03jccZj0, our team combines clinical expertise with genuine care to guide you every step of the way. Emma’s background in both private practice and occupational rehab means you're in capable hands with someone who understands the journey to recovery.

We treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Musculoskeletal injuries (e.g. arthritis, soft tissue injuries)
- Chronic pain and fatigue
- Mental health concerns (e.g. anxiety, stress)
- Surgical recovery
- Cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological conditions

Ready to take the next step? Reach out today - https://hubs.ly/Q03jc8xm0

21/05/2025

We all experience anxiety from time to time, but did you know 43% of adults report feeling more anxious than the previous year? Anxiety isn’t just a temporary issue - it’s rapidly increasing and affecting our daily lives. [Victoria Repa]

Stress comes from many sources:
- Global and national events, including economic changes, politics, natural disasters, and global conflicts.
- Personal concerns like financial issues, work-related stress, family matters, and health worries.

These anxiety-inducing factors don’t just affect our mental health, they impact our productivity and well-being at work. The numbers are staggering:
- Anxiety and depression cost the global economy up to $1 trillion annually.
- 12 billion working days are lost globally each year due to anxiety.

So, how can we address this? Supporting employees during stressful times is no longer optional - it’s essential. Here’s how you can help:
1. Recognise the signs of anxiety.
2. Create a safe space for your team.
3. Listen actively and offer empathy.
4. Provide flexibility with remote work, flexible hours, or lighter workloads.
5. Offer wellness programs and support resources.
6. Encourage regular breaks for mental rest.
7. Check in regularly to show you care.
8. Lead by example and show how you manage anxiety.

Prioritising mental health in the workplace is vital. Your team's well-being directly impacts their performance. Don’t navigate workplace anxiety alone - let us help. Reach out today for guidance and support in fostering a healthier, more supportive work environment - https://hubs.ly/Q03fdwQK0

Contact our highly experienced allied health professionals today on 02 4721 5098 or visit us at our Penrith location 31 Lemongrove Rd Penrith

18/05/2025

Expressing gratitude to employees is a simple yet powerful tool that significantly enhances workplace culture. Regular acknowledgment of staff contributions has been shown to boost morale, increase productivity, and improve retention rates.

Studies indicate that 46% of employers recognise that acts of gratitude and appreciation play a crucial role in employee retention. Furthermore, organisations that foster a culture of recognition often experience higher employee engagement and commitment. [Source: Michael Page, Great Place to Work]

Taking the time to say "thank you" not only validates employees' efforts but also fosters a positive and supportive work environment. This simple act can lead to increased job satisfaction and a stronger sense of belonging among staff members.

Looking for more ways to support and empower your employees? Contact us to learn how you can create a healthier, happier workplace.https://hubs.ly/Q03fdnFT0

Contact our highly experienced allied health professionals today on 02 4721 5098 or visit us at our Penrith location 31 Lemongrove Rd Penrith