Stress in the workplace is a common issue that affects employees’ mental and physical health, as well as their productivity and overall job satisfaction. According to a survey conducted by Statistica, nearly 79% of people said work-related stress is the biggest stressor in their lives, with 1 in 14 feeling stressed every day. Common causes of workplace stress include:
- Increased workloads
- Job uncertainty
- Tension amongst colleagues or supervisors
- Lack of support from management or employees
- Poor working conditions
- Lack of resources
- Organisational change or restructuring
Employers can help create a positive and supportive work environment by taking the following steps:
- Create an open and supportive environment – Encourage open communication and make it clear to your employees that you are available to discuss their concerns. Listen to their worries and validate their feelings.
- Offer resources and support – Provide your employees with resources such as employee assistance programs (EAP), training, counselling services or access to mental health support services.
- Encourage work-life balance – Encourage your employees to take regular breaks. Provide resources for stress-reducing activities such as yoga, mindfulness or meditation.
- Lead by example – Encourage healthy habits by modelling them yourself. Take breaks when needed, prioritise your own self-care and encourage your employees to do the same.
- Be flexible – Be open to making accommodations for employees who may be experiencing stress, such as offering flexible work schedules or workload adjustments.
- Encourage positive relationships – Foster a positive and supportive workplace culture by encouraging teamwork, positive communication and relationships.
It’s important to remember that every employee is different, and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing stress in the workplace. If an employee is experiencing significant stress, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Encourage them to talk to their doctor or a mental health professional for further guidance.
Employers have a duty of care to create a positive and supportive work environment and to take steps to address and prevent workplace stress.
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