Employee stress is a problem that affects all businesses and it has reached a point where it can’t be ignored any longer, say the experts.
The causes of a stressful work environment are clear. The most oft-cited reason is over-work. As many as three in 10 employees feel chronically overworked, according to a study by the Families & Work Institute. The additional work burdens may be caused by layoffs that result in additional workloads for the remaining staff.
At fast growing companies, stress may result when workers are required to take on new and unfamiliar responsibilities. Another cause of stress is when management is not supportive of its staff.
In any case, the results of a stressed-out work environment are not pretty. High levels of stress can lead directly to illness. It also can exacerbate existing illnesses or injuries. And, of course, stress is related to many workplace violence incidents.
The less obvious effects of stress include the financial impact on companies, which suffer from lost work time due to stress-related absences. Then there is the turnover rate, which is much higher at companies where employees experience stress.
Stop stress in its tracks
- Employers can do something about stress if they devote the time and energy to it. Here are some tips:
- Interview your employees to find out what they consider to be stressful about their jobs.
- Once you find out the causes, eliminate them if possible.
- Define your employees’ roles more clearly.
- Make sure employees are suited for their jobs.
- Provide stress management training.
- Provide access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for employees who need help.