We're all aware of that Sunday night feeling, when the dread sets in and the anxiety begins then before you know it you're calling in sick with Sunday night fever. Mental health in the workplace is a rising issue which many businesses are struggling to handle and failing to notice. With an estimated 12.5 million work days lost due to work-related stress, how could you adapt your workplace to prevent absences and increase productivity?
Whilst it’s not always easy to spot stress in an employee who is trying to perform their hardest, do ensure that your management team is provided with the appropriate training or awareness initiatives. Look out for common signs of workplace stress including changes in behaviour, a change in the standard of work produced and your employee’s general attitude towards tasks.
If you do suspect that an employee is suffering from workplace stress, communicate with them. Approach your colleague with an open mind and offer support by reducing workload, reviewing deadlines and proving proactive discussions.
In 2017, the main cause of work-related stress, depression or anxiety was workload, particularly tight deadlines and too much work or an increase in pressure or responsibility. Other issues which have been known to cause employee’s workplace stress include lack of managerial support and organisational changes at work.
If you need any assistance with workplace issues, Howe Consultancy work closely with your business to act as the strategic link between HR and the senior management team. Have a browse of our website for more on what we can do for you, or if you’d prefer to pick up the phone and speak to us, you can call us on 07921 256 981.
