Marvin OnumonuWorkplace community is seen as essential for employee mental wellbeing as nearly three-quarters of employees have reported burnout symptoms in the past year, according to research by caba.
Paul Guess, mental wellbeing expert at caba, said: “Mental health challenges have never been isolated or rare in the modern workplace; only simply been poorly identified and supported until recently.
“Whether due to high expectations, blurred boundaries between work and life, or the pressure to constantly perform, many employees are struggling, often silently.”
The research found that most employees faced rising living costs, increased workloads and ongoing pressure, with younger workers especially affected by burnout.
Guess said: “As workers continue to be piled with pressure, caba’s research shows that nearly three-quarters of respondents have experienced feelings of burnout at least ‘sometimes’ in the past year.”
“Now more than ever, it’s essential for employers to take active responsibility in supporting employee wellbeing.
“Creating safe spaces for peer support is just one important element of a much larger commitment.”
Guess added: “This is where a strong workplace community can build emotional safety, encourage connection, and help people feel seen and heard.”
He said: “A strong workplace support network is more than just a nice-to-have, as it’s a vital source of support in a time when many people are struggling.
“With rising living costs, increased workloads, and constant pressure to perform, it’s no surprise that more employees are feeling the effects of stress, burnout, and emotional fatigue.
“For younger workers in particular, these pressures are hitting hard, and many are already reporting that burnout is affecting their ability to function at work.”
Guess said that when people feel part of something bigger than themselves, they are more likely to check in with each other, speak up and ask for help when they need it.
He added that this sense of belonging can create a ripple effect, making it easier to talk openly about mental health and less likely that anyone will suffer in silence.
To build a better workplace community, Guess recommended practical steps.
He said encouraging workers to be good listeners builds trust and improves how they communicate with colleagues.
He added that communication styles can vary and it is important to create space for different ways of expressing and processing information, whether verbal, written or non-verbal, to make listening more inclusive.
Guess said getting involved in office small talk can break the ice and help people feel at ease, especially those you don’t know well yet.
He added that creating low-pressure, opt-in moments for connection allows everyone to engage in a way that feels comfortable.
Additionally, he pointed out that social time with colleagues is still important, even with remote work and fewer office gatherings.
Guess said that whether it’s grabbing lunch, going for a quick drink after work or joining a leaving do, these moments help workers connect on a human level.
He added that people tend to be more relaxed outside the office, which makes it easier to get to know their strengths, quirks and personalities.
caba’s recent burnout report showed that over half (54%) of accountants reported that feelings of burnout affected their ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
He encouraged colleagues to engage with each other regularly, to make a difference to their overall wellbeing.
Furthermore, Guess said that working with people from other departments gives employees a broader view of the business and helps build relationships outside the usual circle.
He said: “Saying yes to projects outside your day-to-day can stretch your skills, build new connections.
“However, it’s also important to remember that stepping into new spaces can be daunting, especially for those who thrive on routine or feel anxious in unfamiliar settings.
“Having clear agendas and defined roles can help make cross-team projects more accessible.”
On conflict, Guess said disagreements happen in busy workplaces with different perspectives. He said if you’re in conflict with someone, speak to them sooner rather than later and keep it professional.
He added that you might not agree on everything, but dealing with it early is better than letting things spiral.
Guess also highlighted the need for respect.
He said: “Kindness and respect go a long way. You don’t have to agree with everyone, but stay polite and consider how your words and actions come across.
“A respectful workplace that values different backgrounds and viewpoints is usually more productive, more positive, and just a better place to be.
“A connected and community-focused workplace acts as an informal safety net.”
He added: “It offers space for people to be honest about how they’re feeling without fear of being judged or penalised, which can make all the difference.
“Workplaces can be excellent for support, fostering a sense of camaraderie, and sending a clear message: individuals need a robust support system not only to succeed in their work but also to truly thrive.
“In a time when so many are under pressure, building a culture that genuinely prioritises well-being isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.”
