Highlighting Stress Awareness Month with workplace wellness tips 

Making time for breaks isn’t just about stepping away from your screen—it’s about creating a happier, healthier workplace culture. According to a *recent study, employees who socialise during the workday feel more connected, less lonely, and more productive. And with 1 in 3 workers never leaving the workplace during the day and 90% experiencing digital eye fatigue, it’s never been more important.

What else did the study find?

Employees with strong social connections are more engaged, loyal, and happy at work.
70% of workers say having a friend at work encourages them to come in each day.
Sociable workplaces see better teamwork, improved communication, and higher-quality work.
Gen Z and Millennials are more driven by inclusive, experience-led environments prioritising wellbeing and connection.

But it’s not just about planned events—casual breaks over lunch or a drink can spark creativity, reduce stress, and create a sense of belonging. A well-designed breakout space, access to snacks and drinks, or just a place to decompress can make a difference. If your workplace still relies on outdated social spaces or skips the breakroom altogether, now’s the time to rethink it.

It’s Stress Awareness Month — and there’s no better time to talk about something simple but powerful: Taking breaks.

We get it — the working day can fly by in a blur of meetings, emails, and deadlines. But did you know that:

52% of UK workers regularly skip their lunch break - ⏰ The workers who do take a break, the average time is just 33 minutes.
48% of UK workers eat their lunch alone.
1 in 3 workers never leave their workplace during the day.
And 90% of workers experience digital eye fatigue?

That’s a recipe for stress, burnout, and lower productivity — we think it's time to change that.

Why taking a break is good for business

Breaks aren’t just a nice-to-have. They’re essential for mental clarity, physical well-being, and a healthier workplace culture, getting more out of your day. Lunch should be more than just grabbing a snack at your desk, by doing this is the second largest barrier to workplace wellness. Just having a few minutes away from your screen or workstation can boost concentration, reduce eye strain, and help you reset.

Here are some simple ways to encourage breaks at work

 Create environments that support wellbeing and productivity to encourage your team to pause, recharge, and feel motivated at work:

Create inviting breakout areas
Designate a space for informal catch-ups, quiet time, or even solo coffee breaks. Furnishings such as comfortable seating, coffee tables, and acoustic panels make it calm and inviting.

Make tea breaks a thing again
Give your team a reason to get up and connect. Equip your space with kitchen appliances, a hot water dispenser, or a coffee machine — and stock up on tea, coffee, cold drinks and snacks to keep energy levels balanced.

Support healthy lunch habits
Make it easy for your team to enjoy a proper lunch. Think microwaves, fridges, and even blenders for smoothies — all part of a well-stocked workplace kitchen.

Promote screen downtime
Encourage employees to take short breaks during the day. Even a 2-minute walk or a chat in the break area can make a big difference to focus and wellbeing.

Lead by example
When managers and leaders make time for breaks, it sets the tone for everyone else. Build break culture into your day-to-day — your team will thank you. 

We’re here to help you build a happier workplace

Whether it’s space planning for a breakout area, ergonomic furniture, wellbeing-focused supplies, or sustainable kitchen solutions — just ask.

Aston & James: Everything for the Workplace, Book a free workplace wellness consultation.