4. Preventing stress
To create a positive environment at work and help prevent work-related stress, employers should:
- have a clear policy on mental health and stress
- address the causes of stress through risk assessments and employee surveys
- encourage people to raise their concerns – for example, if a person feels they are being discriminated against
- provide training for managers – for example, on managing conflict, change and work-related stress
- support their employees – for example, listening to concerns and acting on them quickly
- promote a work-life balance – for example, encouraging employees to use their breaks and take holiday
- provide employees with access to support – for example, an employee assistance programme (EAP) or training on stress management techniques
Taking steps to prevent work-related stress will help:
- make employees healthier and happier at work
- improve performance and make employees more productive
- reduce absence levels
- avoid disputes at work
- make the organisation more attractive to job seekers
How employees can look after themselves
To look after their own health and wellbeing at work, employees should:
- raise their awareness of what might be causing them stress
- take steps to reduce their stress levels – for example, taking regular breaks or geting outside on a lunch break
- tell their employer when they're experiencing stress at work and ask for help – managers should know where to go for advice and support
- make use of support and training offered by their organisation
The support employers offer might include:
- counselling or mental health support through an employee assistance programme (EAP)
- a mental health peer support programme or employee support network
- occupational health