The Power of the Eight Minute Catch-Up

 

The Eight-Minute Catch-Up can Support Colleagues and Yourself

The COVID-19 pandemic was a strange and confusing time. However, most would agree it brought unprecedented challenges to our mental health, as lockdowns and social distancing measures led to widespread feelings of isolation and loneliness. When the going got tough, a pivotal study jumped in to gain insight into one of the worst memories in our recent history.

Titled: "Effect of Layperson-Delivered, Empathy-Focused Program of Telephone Calls on Loneliness, Depression, and Anxiety Among Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic" by Maninder K. Kahlon, PhD, et al., was conducted and published in February 2021. This randomised clinical trial explored the impact of empathy-driven conversationsof individuals during the pandemic. The findings of this study not only highlighted the importance of social connection but also laid the groundwork for practical applications in our daily lives, such as the idea of the "eight-minute catch-up," championed by leadership expert Simon Sinek. The findings show that it doesn't take much to connect and support those around us.

In our fast-paced lives, finding time to connect with colleagues can be challenging. Yet, by dedicating just eight minutes to a meaningful conversation—whether during a break, a quick walk, or a virtual chat—you can significantly benefit both your mental health and that of your coworkers.  Research has consistently demonstrated that regular, brief interactions can foster emotional resilience, enhance empathy, and strengthen team cohesion. Social support is key to building emotional resilience, especially in the workplace. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology (2020) found that employees who regularly receive social support from colleagues are better equipped to handle stress and are less likely to experience burnout.

When you take the time to check in with a colleague, you're not just exchanging pleasantries—you're actively listening and showing that you care about their wellbeing. A study in Frontiers in Psychology (2020) highlights the importance of social cohesion and empathy in the workplace. Workplaces with a culture of empathy tend to have more collaborative, better communicating and more engaged employees.

Regular, informal check-ins contribute to a sense of belonging and team cohesion. When employees feel connected to their colleagues, they are more likely to work collaboratively and support one another. Research from the American Psychological Association (2020) indicates that teams with solid connections are more productive and report higher job satisfaction. Regularly engaging in short, meaningful conversations can help reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety, creating a more supportive and positive work environment. A study in JAMA Psychiatry (2021) led by Maninder K. Kahlon, PhD, found that even brief, empathy-focused conversations significantly reduced symptoms of loneliness and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic years may be past us, but this research shows the power of consistent, compassionate interactions in maintaining mental wellbeing.

Most people can find time to ask how their colleagues are doing. Tea rooms or break rooms offer ideal opportunities for brief but meaningful conversations. 8 minutes is a great time to go for a walk, or will get you most of the way to a coffee and back (depending on your barista).

Think of it as an easy way to check in, a tool for building resilience, fostering empathy, and strengthening team dynamics. In the work environment, these small, intentional moments of connection are vital for maintaining a healthy and supportive workplace culture. By integrating the eight-minute catch-up into your routine, you not only support your colleagues but also contribute to a more positive and productive work environment.

For more resources on supporting mental health in the workplace, visit AccessEAP's website, where you can find tools and support to help you and your colleagues thrive.

  Journal of Occupational Health Psychology (2020) - Study on the impact of social support from colleagues on stress and burnout.

  Frontiers in Psychology (2020) - Research on the benefits of a culture of empathy in the workplace.

  American Psychological Association (2020) - Report on the relationship between strong internal connections and job satisfaction.

  JAMA Psychiatry (2021) - Study by Maninder K. Kahlon, PhD, et al., on the effects of empathy-focused conversations on loneliness and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic.