International Stress Awareness Week is on 1st -5th November 2021 and National Stress Awareness Day falls on 4th November 2021.
Mental health is of great importance as it keeps us all physically well. Having an absent employee (poorly managed) is emotionally draining for the person. It is the duty of the employer to provide welfare support to aid a healthy recovery. If handled incorrectly, an absent employee can be costly for the business due to loss of productivity and sick pay.
What is Stress? What causes it?
Stress is a body’s reaction to a negative change in a person’s life. Our bodies react to life situations very differently and when negative, unexpected situation arises we all respond very differently. Some can cope whereas others may feel completely lost, under pressure and having very little control over the dilemma. The impact of stress may result in temporary (or long term) mental health problems and emotional turmoil. Examples of stress symptoms include unable to concentrate, panic attacks, breathing problems, crying and lack of sleep.
All employers have at (some stage) come across a stressed employee because of either the pressures of work, deadlines and/or personal issues at home. It is important to discuss such stresses with staff to avoid prolonged sickness.
Employers are urged to talk to their staff. Get your employees to open up and talk. If the employee does not want to talk – encourage them to seek GP advice. Some organisations offer an employee assistance program (telephone support). Such program assists employees with personal problems and/or work-related problems.
There are a few reputable organisations who offer employers and employees support with stress (telephone and website) such as www.mind.org.uk and www.samaritans.org .
Eating and exercise
Talk through stress busters such as exercise can assist. Exercising can help reduce tension and stress whilst releasing positive mental endorphins. Exercise can also help with self-esteem and may help employee to sleep better.
Encourage the employee to take a break away from work a couple of days away from the office, a change of scenery.
Healthy eating is also another good option to explore with your employee. A well balance diet and getting the right nutrients to stay healthy is fundamental.
If the employee is stressed with work, encourage the employee to take regular breaks. Set smaller and more achievable targets so that they are in control of their work. Put a performance plan in place so the employee can focus on key tasks.
By assisting your fellow employees during a period of hardship may also support a long term healthy working relationship.
The article is for general information purposes only and should you require any further assistance on the matter please do not hesitate to call our advice-line team on 01455 852028.
