Preventing stress - Managing work-related 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