Finding balance between work and play for better mental health

Finding the right work-life balance is essential for professionals, especially when meeting deadlines is just as crucial as delivering exceptional client service. 

Redefining “work-life balance”

In order to find an outlet to de-stress and overcome accumulated pressures at work, Rose Anne Caoile and her team members in Assurance actively find ways to stay connected with each other through various team-bonding activities, be it physically or virtually. As remote working is now the norm for many in EY, their team has also pivoted to digital platforms to organize virtual team events such as virtual birthday celebrations and year-end parties for their get-together activities. Although there have been unavoidable issues at times, like technical glitches, those did not dampen their spirit and enthusiasm to come together and support each other while working remotely. 

Apart from attending virtual events, Rose and her team would also occasionally dedicate time outside of work to gather physically during off-peak periods, when time and circumstances permit. They have organized a few outdoor activities such as hiking and chilling by the river, and for Rose, those moments were perfect opportunities for her to shake off her work stress and have fun with her supportive team members.

It is possible for anyone to redefine the balance between work and life - and while she works hard, Rose also knows when to play hard so that she is able to find balance in life and look after her mental, social and physical wellbeing.

For some, a healthy work-life balance can be maintained through supportive family members and colleagues, but for others, the situation may not be the same. Work-related stress is something we all feel from time to time. Prolonged work-related stress without relief can lead to burnout which can subsequently affect all aspects of wellbeing, including physical, mental or emotional, social and financial.

If you are experiencing any of these, remember that it is normal, and it is a phase that almost everyone goes through at certain points in life. Here at EY, we are committed to assisting our people receive optimum health and wellbeing support so that they can be the best version of themselves. One of the solutions that EY offers to its people is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What is EAP?

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) was launched for EY people in Malaysia in October 2018. It is a program that helps our people obtain professional help from certified counsellors and mental health professionals. All the sessions conducted via EAP are carried out confidentially and everyone in EY is given free access to initiate the service when needed. The sessions are 100% confidential and the EAP team can either be contacted via a toll-free line from Monday to Friday (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.), or by email.

Usage of EAP

Through the EAP, one can obtain support and advice in dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, feelings of being overwhelmed by pressures at work or home, personal issues and family challenges, family counseling, conflict with colleagues, career burnout or other issues that may be impacting one’s personal or professional  life.

The wellbeing of our people is a priority at EY. In driving our purpose of building a better working world, we need to ensure that our people’s wellness is fully supported. We believe that when our people thrive, we thrive. 

The best version of you.

It’s yours to build.