In 2020, 10 global research teams examined evidence behind promising approaches for preventing anxiety and depression in the workplace. Among the findings:
- Flexible work can reduce work-life conflict, a major source of stress, depression, and anxiety. To be successful, this needs to have the support of managers throughout the organization.
- Breaking up sitting for long periods of time with some activity can help reduce depression symptoms by 10% and anxiety by 15%.
- More autonomy is associated with lower rates of anxiety and depression.
The research also exposed some gaps in evidence. For instance, despite a great deal of research, we still know little about how effective mindfulness interventions are.