How can employers spot the signs of workplace stress?

The experience of the last couple of years has had an enormous impact on our mental health and sense of community. Isolation, cancelled gatherings, travel restrictions and working from home have kept us in one place for long periods of time. However, one of the positives to emerge from the pandemic has been the community spirit and support shown by so many.

April is Stress Awareness Month and the theme this year is community. Support and relationships at work are two key areas that can lead to stress if they are not managed properly.

Did you know that mental health is the number one reason for work-related illness in the UK and is on the rise?

According to the Health and Safety Executive, more than 800,000 workers in the UK suffered from work-related stress, anxiety or depression in 2020/21.

Research by the mental health charity Mind has also shown that two in five employees reported their mental health had worsened during the pandemic.

It’s easy to spot some of the tell-tale warning signs of stress in teams:

A lack of support and strained relationships at work can cause stress, loneliness and isolation, which in turn can impact mental health.

Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, the law requires all employers to prevent work-related stress to support good mental health.

For more information about Working Minds visit the Working Minds campaign website