Stress is a significant issue in today’s workplaces, whether due to high job demands, workplace culture, or personal challenges. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 1.7 million people in the UK reported work-related ill health between 2023 and 2024. Effectively managing stress is not just beneficial for employee well-being but also essential for maintaining a productive and positive work environment.
What is stress?
Stress affects everyone differently. It occurs when a person feels overwhelmed by emotional or mental pressure, triggering a hormonal response that impacts both the body and mind.
It’s important to note that not all stress is bad, as some individuals thrive in high-pressure environments. However, over time, long periods of stress can lead to serious health concerns, affecting both psychological and physical well-being. Prolonged stress can potentially cause long-term illness, burnout, and reduced productivity.
Recognizing the Signs of Workplace Stress
While it’s not your role to diagnose employees, recognising early warning signs allows you to open a supportive conversation and offer assistance. If you’re concerned about a colleague or employee, encourage them to seek professional advice, such as consulting their GP.
Emotional Signs
- Persistent negative or depressive feelings
- Self-doubt and disappointment
- Increased emotional reactions (e.g., tearfulness, irritability, or aggression)
- Withdrawal and feelings of loneliness
- Loss of motivation, confidence, or commitment
- Unpredictable mood swings
Cognitive and Behavioural Signs
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Poor memory and confusion
- Changes in eating habits
- Increased smoking, alcohol consumption, or drug use
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Nervous habits (e.g., fidgeting, nail-biting)
- Frequent lateness or increased absenteeism
Physical Symptoms
- Headaches or dizziness
- Muscle tension and body aches
- Digestive problems
- Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
- Weakened immune system, leading to frequent colds
Many employees experiencing workplace stress continue working despite being unwell (presenteeism) due to fears of falling behind. If you’ve noticed colleagues working while sick, or if you often push yourself to work despite illness, this could be a red flag for workplace stress.
For more information on symptoms of stress, there are more details on the NHS website.
How to Cope with Workplace Stress
If you are finding workplace stress is becoming overwhelming, here are steps to help manage and reduce its impact:
1. Understanding Your Stress Triggers
Identify what’s causing stress, whether it’s workload, deadlines, the office environment, or work relationships. Once you recognize the source, you can take proactive steps to address it.
2. Communicate and Seek Support
Talk about how you are feeling, whether with a manager, HR, a colleague, or a professional. Stress should not be suffered in silence. You shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help, as your employer wants a healthy and productive workforce, and they care about your well-being.
3. Take Breaks & Use Your Holiday Entitlement
Take regular breaks from your workstation and screen throughout the day. Stepping away from your work can help boost your focus and reduce fatigue. In addition, make sure you are using all your annual leave to help reset and recharge.
4. Encouraging Workplace Well-being Initiatives
If available, attend workshops surrounding stress management. Suggest the idea to your management if this sort of workshop is not readily available for you and your colleagues, as they may also benefit.
5. Setting Boundaries Between Work and Personal Life
Avoid checking emails or working outside of office hours. After hours, turn off work notifications, as this can help to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
- Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours per night to maintain energy and focus.
- Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet to support brain function and energy levels.
- Exercise: Physical activity reduces stress hormones and improves mood.
- Mindfulness & Meditation: These techniques help manage stress responses and increase mental resilience.
Managing Stress for Remote Workers
With more employees working from home, maintaining mental well-being has become a growing challenge. Remote workers may struggle with isolation, blurred work-life boundaries, and reduced social interactions.
To help remote teams, businesses can implement well-being check-ins. ErgoPro offers an online workstation assessment system with a well-being module that allows employers to monitor employees’ mental and physical well-being. The system gathers feedback through structured questions, helping employers identify concerns and take action to support their workforce.
Final Thoughts
Stress at work is a serious concern, but it can be managed with the right support, awareness, and workplace adjustments. Whether you’re an employer looking to create a healthier work environment or an employee struggling with stress, prioritizing well-being benefits everyone.
If you’re looking for tools to enhance workplace wellness and ergonomic support, ErgoPro’s well-being module can help ensure employees—both in the office and remote—receive the support they need.
Useful resources
Office managers networking event Brighton (How to manage stress in the workplace)
Unum: simple stress at work guide
Health & Safety Executive (HSE)
