Walailak University Creates a Healthy Workplace that Promotes Staff Mental Health and Well-being
Walailak University Creates a Healthy Workplace that Promotes Staff Mental Health and Well-being
In 2025, Walailak University (WU) recognised that good mental health is essential to quality of life, positive workplace relationships, and effective work performance. The university therefore provided staff with access to mental health support, placing particular emphasis on the active promotion of good mental health among faculty members and staff. This approach extended beyond providing assistance when mental health problems arise to include preventive measures, health promotion activities, opportunities for relaxation, social interaction, and self-care, as well as access to appropriate mental health support services. Through the provision of proactive mental health promotion activities and accessible support mechanisms, the university aimed to create a supportive working environment, strengthen staff well-being, and foster an organisational culture in which employees are encouraged to maintain good physical and mental health and seek professional support when needed.
Mental Health Promotion Activities for Staff
In 2025, Walailak University implemented a range of activities that demonstrate the university’s active promotion of good mental health and staff well-being.
Promoting Physical and Mental Well-being through the Staff Health Behavior Modification Programme
On 14 January 2025, the Health Promotion Department of Walailak University Hospital organized the Staff Health Behavior Modification Programme, with more than 30 medical personnel and staff participating. The programme promoted mental well-being in the workplace by incorporating emotional well-being, self-care, and motivation into health education, alongside guidance on diet, physical activity, reducing substance use, and reducing risk factors. Participants had opportunities to share experiences and develop approaches to health behavior modification suited to their individual needs, supporting staff in taking an active role in caring for their physical and mental well-being.
A health competition aimed at preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) further encouraged participation and sustained self-care. On 2 September 2025, the University organized an award and recognition ceremony for staff who successfully completed the programme’s second cohort. This recognition provided positive reinforcement and encouragement, supporting continued self-care and highlighting the importance of emotional well-being as part of staff health promotion.
Yoga for Life Balance: Creating Opportunities for Relaxation and Mental Well-being
On 30 May 2025, Walailak University organized “Yoga for Life Balance” as part of the Staff Health Behavior Modification Programme to promote staff mental well-being through relaxation and self-care. Combining health education with practical yoga sessions, the activity gave staff an opportunity to pause from work, relax, and learn techniques they could incorporate into their daily routines. It also addressed physical fatigue associated with prolonged computer use and repetitive working postures, supporting both physical comfort and mental well-being. Through these opportunities for relaxation and self-care, the activity supported the active promotion of good mental health in the workplace, encouraging staff to maintain a balance between work, rest, and their physical and emotional needs.
Building Workplace Relationships and Well-being through Staff Seminars
From 22–23 May 2025, the Medical Technology Programme, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, organized its annual seminar under the theme “Advancing MT 2025 Through Faculty Insights and Preparing for Program Assessment.” Alongside professional development and programme assessment preparation, the seminar supported staff mental well-being by providing opportunities to relax, recharge, and strengthen relationships outside their usual teaching and working environments.
Interaction and shared activities encouraged connection among colleagues and a sense of belonging within the team. A faculty performance activity also allowed participants to express their creativity and individuality in a friendly atmosphere, creating opportunities for enjoyment, relaxation, and positive shared experiences.
By incorporating social interaction, creative expression, and relaxation into a work-related event, the seminar supported the active promotion of good mental health in the workplace, reflecting a Healthy Workplace approach that values staff well-being alongside professional performance.
SAH Smile Club: Promoting Staff Mental Well-being Through Relaxation and Social Connection
On 12 March 2025, the SAH Helper Team, together with the Corporate Communications Mission of the School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, organized the “SAH Smile Club Open House” to promote staff mental well-being through a dedicated space for relaxation, recreation, and interaction with colleagues. Staff participated in the “Life Card Game” and board games, which encouraged conversation, the exchange of ideas, and shared experiences in a friendly environment. These activities offered opportunities to take a break from work responsibilities, relax, and strengthen social connections, supporting a positive and supportive workplace atmosphere.
Beyond the opening event, SAH Smile Club provides ongoing access to its space and activity equipment, allowing staff to return for relaxation, self-care, and opportunities to recharge throughout their working lives. Through this continuing provision, the initiative supports the active promotion of good mental health in the workplace, integrating relaxation and social connection into everyday staff well-being.
Systematic Mental Health Support for Staff
In addition to the active promotion of good mental health, Walailak University provides health-related units and personnel that can support staff when they require further assistance. These include Smile Clinic and Psychiatric Clinic, which form part of the University’s health support mechanisms and can connect staff with relevant health support when needed.
The university’s approach therefore combines mental health promotion before problems arise, opportunities for relaxation and social connection, motivation for self-care, and access to relevant health support services when necessary. Together, these measures provide a continuum of support covering promotion, prevention, and access to support.
Creating a Healthy Workplace that Puts People First
The university’s activities in 2025 demonstrate that staff well-being is addressed not only through disease prevention but also through mental health, social relationships, a sense of belonging, relaxation, and work-life balance. Through a range of activities, staff have opportunities to learn self-care practices, participate in activities that promote relaxation, build workplace relationships, and receive positive encouragement from the organization. These initiatives demonstrate Walailak University’s commitment to a Healthy Workplace that promotes good mental health and supports the well-being of staff alongside the University’s broader organizational goals.
Related Links
- https://sah.wu.ac.th/?p=23077
- https://sah.wu.ac.th/?p=22384&utm_source=chatgpt.com
- https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JYzF4CsE5/
- https://www.facebook.com/WUhospitalNakhon/posts/pfbid02LJ9p3K2e7u5YGhxBh4VHcWhJhAkMxT7CowWZZ21gm5M8kpBxgFDKwgBvGZqo8ysFl?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Goal 3:
Good health and well-being
Goal 4:
Quality Education
Goal 17:
Partnerships for the Goals