Stress at Work

Understanding Stress at Work

Stress at work is a prevalent issue that can significantly impact employees' physical and mental health, leading to decreased productivity and overall wellbeing.

It is essential to understand the causes of stress and how to manage it to promote a healthy work environment and support employees’ wellbeing.

Work-Related Stress

Work-related stress is a silent disruptor, often overlooked until its impact becomes damaging and undeniable.

Many employees carry the weight of excessive workload, unclear expectations or a lack of adequate support, leading to declining mental health, reduced productivity and even burnout. The ability to manage stress in the workplace is crucial for employees to safeguard their overall health and wellbeing.

Importance of Mental Health

Recognising the signs of stress at work early is the first important step to providing timely help, creating a more supportive workplace and improving overall wellbeing. It is essential to recognise the signs; it is not just an investment in employee wellbeing, but a necessity for business sustainability. When employers prioritise the mental health of their staff, they foster a healthier, more engaged, and productive workforce, benefiting both the individual and the organisation as a whole.

Statistics on Work-Related Stress

Many recent statistics highlight the alarming prevalence of stress levels at work. Several factors appear to contribute to this disturbing trend:

Thirty-six per cent of employees report struggling to cope with their workload.
32% of employees struggle to balance work and home life.

Additionally, 17 million working days were lost to work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2022, and data reveals that 32% of employees feel undertrained for their roles, which can contribute to stress.

Understanding these numbers underlines the importance of addressing workplace stress proactively.

Causes of Stress

The causes of stress at work can be varied and complex, arising from different aspects of the work environment.

Identifying these causes is crucial for taking targeted actions and developing effective strategies to manage stress, improve employee wellbeing, and create a healthier workplace for all.

Workload and Time Pressure

Common reasons for stress at work include excessive pressure; pressure to perform and meet rising expectations, but with no corresponding increase in job satisfaction. An unmanageable workload and tight deadlines can lead to high levels of stress and burnout. When employees are constantly under pressure, their mental and physical health can suffer, making it more challenging to maintain productivity and fully engage in their roles.

Lack of Support from Management

One of the most prevalent causes of workplace stress is a lack of adequate support from management. When employees feel unsupported, they may experience increased pressure and uncertainty, leading to higher stress levels. A supportive manager is one who not only provides resources and guidance but also fosters open communication, actively listens to concerns, and acknowledges their team’s efforts and contributions. This backing helps to create a more positive work environment, reducing the negative impact of workplace stress and promoting employee wellbeing.

Identifying the Signs

Physical Symptoms of Work-Related Stress

When employees are subjected to persistent pressure at work, their physical health may manifest in various ways. These signs of stress at work may include headaches, fatigue, or frequent illness, indicating that the body is struggling to cope. Some individuals experiencing stress might also notice a pounding heart or palpitations. A dry mouth, unexplained aches and pains, loss of appetite, and problems sleeping are additional physical symptoms of stress that should not be ignored. The physical manifestation of stress underscores the importance of addressing workplace stress promptly to maintain overall wellbeing.

Emotional and Behavioural Signs

Beyond physical symptoms of stress, emotional and behavioural changes often signal that an individual is struggling with stress in the workplace. An employee who is usually upbeat but becomes withdrawn, irritable, or tearful may be experiencing stress that demands attention. Persistent anxiety, lack of motivation, or sudden mood swings are additional emotional signs of stress, while increased lateness, absenteeism, or difficulty meeting deadlines can be indicators that someone is struggling with their mental health.

Recognising Stress Outside of Work

The effects of stress aren’t confined to the workplace; they often spill over into your personal life. If you’re stressed, it can significantly affect your family life and friendships, diminishing your ability to enjoy hobbies and unwind. It’s essential to recognise the signs that stress may be impacting your relationships and leisure activities – stress can affect your ability to relax, be fully present, and engage with loved ones. By acknowledging how stress may be impacting your life outside work, you can take proactive steps to manage it and reclaim your overall health and wellbeing.

Managing Work-Related Stress

Manage Stress in the Workplace

When job stress and workplace stress threaten to overwhelm you, there are practical steps you can take to regain control and manage stress at work. When you support your physical health with good nutrition and exercise, you become stronger and more resilient to stress. Aerobic exercise is an effective way to lift your mood, increase energy, sharpen focus, and relax both the mind and body. For maximum stress relief, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days. Skimping on sleep interferes with your daytime productivity, creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to focus. Avoid scheduling things back-to-back or trying to fit too much into one day.

How We Can Help You

Expertise in Occupational Stress Claims

We provide support for those who feel stressed and have a proven track record of successfully fighting occupational stress claims. Since 2001, we secured the first major award of damages for the victim of a breakdown. Since then, we have continued to be at the forefront of developments in psychiatric injury claims, especially those resulting from bullying. Our expertise ensures that every avenue will be thoroughly explored if you are experiencing stress in the workplace and wish to submit an occupational stress claim.