Warning: The cultural shift towards mandatory mindfulness sessions at work is undermining genuine mental wellness

In my area, companies are rolling out compulsory mindfulness programs as a fix-all for employee stress. I disagree with this blanket approach because it feels performative and ignores individual needs. For instance, at my firm, these sessions are scheduled during lunch breaks, adding pressure instead of relieving it. This assumes everyone benefits from the same method, which isn't true for people like me who prefer solitary reflection. It trivializes deeper issues by offering a quick corporate solution. We need flexible, personalized strategies rather than enforced practices. Let's advocate for real support systems, not one-size-fits-all trends.

2 comments

2 Comments

lisag894h ago

Exactly, forced participation strips away any actual benefit. Last week my department had a "mandatory relaxation hour" that just felt like another performance review, sitting there cross-legged while managers watched who was "engaged." It turned what could be a private coping tool into a source of anxiety about appearing calm enough. I've found a quiet walk does more for me than those guided sessions, but suggesting an alternative gets you labeled as not being a team player. It’s the corporate co-opting of wellness, turning it into another box to check.

sage59755m ago

Mandatory relaxation is an oxymoron. Next they'll be scoring our deep breathing for the promotion committee.