Stress is now the most common cause of long-term sickness absence from the workplace, according to a new survey.
New figures reveal for the first time that stress now causes the majority of serious health problems for both manual and non-manual workers, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development have discovered.
They also found that companies planning redundancies are significantly more likely to see an increase in mental health problems among employees.
Expert Keith Gorman said: “Today’s news is shocking but unfortunately not surprising. We see the effects of stress on workplaces every day. Not only can it have a debilitating effect on people’s personal lives, but long-term absence of any kind can affect the productivity, and ultimately the bottom line, of a business.
“It is also a regrettable sign of the times that working under threat of redundancy takes a massive toll on the mental health and wellbeing of employees.
“No matter what the sector, people are finding the pressures of the workplace harder to cope with than ever. People do not need to suffer alone there is support out there, from organizations like ourselves, where practical, confidential advice can be accessed.
Effective leadership surely plays a crucial role in managing employee stress levels, especially during difficult periods of uncertainty or change. For example, open and honest communication encourages a level of trust and will help to overcome fear of the unknown.
Empowering line managers and encouraging them to take greater responsibility for their team should mean that closer working relationships are fostered. In turn, this should increase the likelihood of spotting the early signs of employees struggling to cope with work for whatever reason.
But don’t forget that software can help to identify an issue and can guide line managers through the appropriate support process. With HR providing a consultative role if required, this should help to address any problems before they have a chance to escalate.
For the last 25 years, I have been working with industry and commerce to help employees manage and reduce work stress. The current economic climate is requiring industry to do more for less in an attempt to stay afloat. This is little support for employees who find themselves dealing with anxiety, increased pressure at work and personal stress at home as they juggle finances and family commitments.
It is because of this that I have written a new book ‘Show Stress Who’s Boss’ which will show you how to deal with stress. It condenses my stress management expertise into a book that will help everyone – from an individual who needs to effectively manage their own stress symptoms and anxiety, to a manager, supervisor or team leader who has to deal quickly with any work stress problems in the workplace.
My Top 6 Tips To Help You Beat Stress Today!
• Avoid getting angry over things you cannot change
• Learn how to say ‘no’ to unreasonable demands
• Put 20 minutes ‘me’ time into your diary every day
• Set regular times to read your emails, then close your inbox!
• Use the stairs and not the lift!
• Have daily and weekly to-do lists
Find out how to deal with stress with the help of ‘Show Stress Who’s Boss’ which is now available: http://www.showstresswhosboss.co.uk
Carole Spiers
Leading Authority on Corporate Stress