Date: 7 November 2007

Source: People Management

Employers need to identify and tackle stress in the workplace before it has a negative impact on their business.

The statistics come on National Stress Awareness day, organised by the International Stress Management Association who’s mission is to highlight the coping strategies and sources available to those who want to reduce the harmful effects of stress in their lives.

Vanessa Sallows, underwriting and benefits director for Legal & General’s Group Protection business said: “Work is very important to many people but this may lead to people becoming too absorbed in their daily routine and this can lead to increased pressure and stress.

If this situation is prolonged this may take its toll on a worker’s physical and mental wellbeing and result in a range of health problems such as heart disease, back pain and gastrointestinal problems.”

The research, which questioned 2,000 people and is part of an ongoing study of Britain’s health worries also highlighted that one in five believed that they worked too many extra hours.

Other results showed that almost one in four full-time British workers never take a break during work and 7% do not even take a holiday.

The National Stress Awareness day website includes tips on how to avoid or get rid of stress. Its suggestions include, among others, smiling, exercising, achieving a good work-life balance and seeking professional help.