Why comfortable seating is crucial for mental health at work

"Mental health in the workplace has become a central concern for Australian businesses, with organisations increasingly recognising that employee wellbeing directly influences productivity, retention, and company culture. While mental health initiatives often focus on counselling services, flexible working arrangements, and stress management programmes, one fundamental element is frequently overlooked: the physical environment in which employees spend their working hours. Here's a startling reality: the average office worker spends 1,700 hours per year sitting at their desk."

"The Link Between Physical Comfort and Mental Wellbeing The relationship between physical discomfort and mental strain is well established in workplace health research. When employees experience persistent physical discomfort-whether from poor posture, inadequate lumbar support, or chairs that don't accommodate their body type-their bodies respond with increased cortisol production, the hormone associated with stress. This physiological stress response doesn't remain isolated to the body; it directly impacts mood, cognitive function, and emotional resilience."

Mental health is a central concern for Australian businesses because employee wellbeing directly influences productivity, retention, and company culture. Organisations commonly offer counselling, flexible working arrangements, and stress management programmes while often overlooking the physical work environment. The average office worker spends 1,700 hours per year seated, exceeding typical sleep hours. Investing in quality office chairs represents a tangible commitment to physical comfort and psychological health. Physical discomfort from poor posture, inadequate lumbar support, or ill-fitting chairs raises cortisol production and triggers a physiological stress response that impairs mood, cognition, and emotional resilience. Persistent muscle strain produces tension in the neck, shoulders, and back and reduces focus, increasing irritability and lowering patience.

Read at Business Matters