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. 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—some individuals thrive in high-pressure environments. However, prolonged stress can lead to serious health concerns, affecting both psychological and physical well-being, potentially causing long-term illness, burnout, and reduced productivity.
Recognizing the Signs of Workplace Stress
While it’s not your role to diagnose employees, recognizing 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.
How to Cope with Workplace Stress
If 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 it—whether with a manager, HR, a colleague, or a professional. Stress should not be suffered in silence.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help—your employer wants a healthy and productive workforce.
3. Take Breaks & Use Your Holiday Entitlement
- Regular breaks throughout the day can boost focus and reduce fatigue.
- Use your annual leave—taking time away from work helps reset and recharge.
4. Encouraging Workplace Well-being Initiatives
- Attend stress management workshops if available.
- If your workplace doesn’t offer them, suggest the idea to management—other employees may benefit too!
5. Setting Boundaries Between Work and Personal Life
- Avoid checking emails or working outside of office hours.
- If possible, turn off work notifications after hours 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)
