6 Tips for a Stress-Resilient Workplace
As April is in full swing, let's take a moment to shine a spotlight on something pretty important: Stress Awareness Month.
Now, if you're in the HR world like us, you know that stress isn't just a buzzword—it's a real deal affecting millions of hardworking souls in the UK every year.
So, let's chat about how stress impacts us, both personally and professionally, and what we can do to tackle it head-on.
Feeling the Weight of Stress
Did you know that in the UK, over 17.9 million working days were lost due to stress-related issues?
That's a staggering number, folks!
And here's the kicker: it's not just about those days off—it's about the toll it takes on individuals and businesses alike. Mental illness costs UK employers a whopping £35 billion annually, with a hefty chunk of that attributed to—you guessed it—good old stress.
It's not just about the bottom line though, it's about our wellbeing and our ability to thrive at work.
Turning the Tide
So, let's talk solutions! As HR and wellbeing champs, we've got some tricks up our sleeves to help create a workplace where stress doesn't reign supreme. Here's how:
1. Let's Get Talking:
Communication is key - encourage open dialogue where people feel comfortable sharing their worries and fears. Whether it's through regular check-ins or anonymous feedback channels, let's make sure everyone's voice is heard.
2. Flex It Out:
Who says work has to be 9-5? Offering flexible working hours or remote options if possible can work wonders for people juggling busy lives. It's all about finding that sweet spot where work and life can coexist harmoniously.
We know this can be put in the “too hard, don’t need it” file for many small business owners. Don’t write it off entirely. If you are able to come up with something, give it consideration. The majority of job seekers are looking for flexibility… just saying.
3. Train Up:
Knowledge is power - equip managers and staff with the tools they need to spot the signs of stress and offer a helping hand. Mental health first aid training, anyone?
4. Wellbeing Initiatives:
Investing in our people's well-being isn't just good karma—it's good business. But lets face it, a fruit bowl may top up your Vitamin C, but it isn’t going to stop your team being stressed.
Find out what’s needed in your workplace… and do that.
5. Keep it Real:
Let's take a step back and make sure our workloads are manageable. By setting realistic goals and priorities, we can help people steer clear of burnout city. Checking in with people to see how they are tracking is a great way to open up that conversation about workload.
Don’t forget - not having enough work to do can be more stressful than having too much! It’s all about finding that balance.
6. Helping Hands:
Sometimes, we all need a little extra support. Whether that’s through checking in with people with their workload and putting support systems in place to things like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Offering access to counseling services shows our people that we've got their backs, no matter what.
There you have it, folks! Stress Awareness Month isn't just a time to raise awareness—it's a call to action. By coming together and prioritising mental health in the workplace, we can create a culture where stress takes a backseat and wellbeing rides shotgun.
Here's to a stress-free (or at least stress-resilient) future!
Unsure where to start? Get in touch with us today and we can have a free, no-obligation chat.
Want to know how your team are actually feeling? Take our engagement survey and know what’s really going on and how to fix it.
Sources:
1. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) - Work-related Stress, Anxiety, or Depression Statistics in Great Britain
2. Centre for Mental Health - Mental Health at Work: The Business Costs Ten Years On
3. Mind.org.uk - How Employers Can Promote Good Mental Health
4. ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) - Promoting Positive Mental Health in the Workplace
5. NHS - Stress, Anxiety, and Depression: Reducing the Impact on Employees
6. Mental Health Foundation - How to Support Mental Health at Work: Tips for Employers