This month is Stress Awareness Month with the latest statistics demonstrating how important it is for employers to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of stress.

 Mainly an increase in the cost of living threatens to compound the issues faced by many.

With 79% of employed British adults commonly experiencing workplace stress (20% higher than last year), it is an issue that impacts workers across all sectors and occupations, as the latest data shows.

According to a recent study, 84% of those working in Healthcare confirmed they had experienced feelings of work-related stress at some point in their career.

Meanwhile, Government (92%), Telecoms (88%), and Media & Marketing (85%) made up the top three most stressed sectors.

Despite many people hoping that a return to normality in the post-pandemic era would bring about a period of financial stability, the reality of hiked energy prices will undoubtedly exacerbate feelings of stress, which could impact work performance and productivity. 

Tina Chander, Head of the Employment Law Team at Wright Hassall, commented: “Much has been said about work-related stress in the last two years, as pandemic-related redundancies and furloughs created an overwhelming sense of uncertainty amongst

workers. 

“Unfortunately, just as it looked like the worst of Covid was behind us, a steep increase in the cost of living has left many feeling anxious about their current financial situation. 

This directly impacts how they feel at and about work in many cases.

“Considering that 79% of adults already experience workplace stress regularly, this latest news should prompt employers to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of workplace stress to spot potential cases and offer the necessary support.

“Given that April is Stress Awareness Month, there couldn’t be a perfect time for businesses to review their existing stress management procedures, taking steps to combat the issue, whether with flexible working hours, access to counseling services, or an ‘open-door policy.

“It is in the best interests of employers to do so, as failing to support stressed employees can lead to higher staff turnover, decreased productivity and poor morale, amongst other issues.”