5 ways to manage stress in the workplace
Did you know that workplace stress costs the UK economy a staggering £28 billion annually?
It is no surprise, therefore that mental health has become a pressing concern for UK employers, and it is not a problem that is fading anytime soon.
According to official statistics by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), stress, anxiety and depression account for 51% of all work-related ill health cases. Further, 55% of all working days lost are due to work-related ill health.
Managing workplace stress is therefore vital for employees and businesses alike and one of the key ways to do so is by providing effective employment support.
Here are our top five tips on how to support staff well-being.
How to manage stress in the workplace
1. Audit your existing wellbeing strategy
Before you begin it's important to assess what you are doing well in the first place. To do this, audit your existing wellbeing strategy and determine how you are supporting your employees according to these criteria:
- Physical wellbeing
- Mental wellbeing
- Financial wellbeing
If you’re not sure how to do this, head over to our Workplace Wellness Step-by-Step Guide. This Guide will help you to:
- Audit your current programme.
- Give you a step-by-step process for building a comprehensive workplace wellness strategy.
- Explain why workplace wellness is important for overall organisational success.
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If you would like to find out more about our solutions, get in touch.
2. Promoting work-life balance
One of the primary sources of stress in the workplace is an imbalance between work and personal life.
Employers can tackle this issue by encouraging a healthy work-life balance. Flexible working hours, remote work options, and clear expectations regarding after-hours communication can empower employees to better manage their time.
Bravo Benefits offers tailored solutions that help employees strike a balance between their professional responsibilities and personal life, ultimately reducing stress levels and enhancing overall wellbeing.
3. Providing mental health support
Mental health has gained significant attention in recent years, and for good reason. Companies that prioritise employee mental health issues can foster a more supportive and compassionate work environment.
It can be a challenge, however, to identify those who need support. This is where Mental Health First Aid training can help. The course can equip you with the information that you need, and train you to spot the signs of mental illness in others. This can give you the confidence you need to step in if an employee shows signs of crisis and the reassurance that you are delivering the right support.
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4. Encouraging physical activity
Regular physical activity is a proven way to reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing. Employers can play a role in promoting a healthy lifestyle by offering wellness initiatives such as Gym Discounts or the Cycle to Work scheme.
5. Fostering a supportive community
A strong sense of community within the workplace can significantly alleviate stress. Employers can facilitate this by organising team-building activities, regular check-ins, and open communication channels.
6. Offering financial wellness
Financial concerns are a significant source of stress for many individuals.
Bravo Benefits recognises the impact of financial wellness on overall wellbeing and provides benefits to help employers address this issue.
Employers can offer a complete financial wellbeing solution with our Financial Wellbeing benefit. It includes access to financial literacy educational resources, access to financial advisors, and even assistance with debt management.
By addressing financial stress, companies can effectively provide comprehensive employment support that contributes to improved mental health and greater peace of mind.
Prioritising wellbeing for a brighter future
Managing stress in the workplace is a multifaceted challenge that requires a comprehensive approach. Prioritising mental health within the workplace, however, is not only a responsibility but also an investment in the wellbeing and productivity of employees.
By promoting work-life balance, providing resources for mental health support, and creating a positive work environment, employers can effectively address workplace stressors and contribute to a healthier, happier workforce.
It is essential to recognise that each employee's experience with stress is unique. What works for one person might not work for another. Therefore, maintaining an ongoing dialogue with employees and continuously assessing the effectiveness of stress management strategies is crucial.
By taking these steps, employers can create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and equipped to manage stress effectively, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and productive workplace.
