Workplace Stress and Alternative Solutions

Recent statistics show that 42% of employees believe that their current workplace does not positively impact their happiness. A complimentary study from The Office for National Statistics has since reported that productivity within the UK fallen to pre-financial crisis level, sitting just 0.4% below the peak at the end of 2007. Worryingly, productivity levels are only widening the gap between the UK and major trading partners like the US and Germany.

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Unfortunately, many workers feel that the decline in productivity in the workplace comes from management, enforcing increasingly unrealistic deadlines and milestones on an already overworked and stressed workforce. In fact, a Norwegian study found that 62% of managers experienced time pressures and heavy loads, causing them to feel stressed at work. In 2015/16, stress accounted for 45% of all working days lost to ill health. The stress epidemic undoubtedly stems from the top, what it is exactly that managers and employees can do to reduce their own stress levels and ultimately, reduce that of their surrounding workforce?

Unsurprisingly, the nation’s capital is home to many of the most stressful management roles, creating unwanted strain in an already overcrowded space. Many managers report that their work stresses have in some way affected and put negative strain on their relationship with their partner. In response to this, there has been an enormous increase in the number of basement conversions in London for managers and families that want to create a relaxing space to unwind and enjoy. While you might think that construction crews and large costs might incur extra stress, those who undertaking their conversion can take extra comfort in knowing that their investment will add enormous value to their property, far outweighing the initial cost of the project.

Long hours take their toll. Carrying out tedious and repetitive tasks over 9 hours each day can have detrimental impacts on mental health and life outside of work. Throw in a two-hour commute either way and it’s no surprise why so many are falling victim to work related illnesses. Flexible working hours and remote working highlighted in an American study showed that; after 9 months of flexi-time, business reported decreased absenteeism and workers reporting that they had accomplished more than they would have in a 9-5 routine. Ask if your business has a flexible working plan in place, or speak to your HR department about the potential of introducing a flexible working scheme to accommodate work stresses.

Even seasonal perks like summer parties or team building activities have been shown to boost productivity within the office, with 84% of the UK workforce saying that these summer benefits make them more productive. Further research suggests that up to 34% of businesses do not currently offer seasonal perks for their employees. Christmas is for many, the most stressful working period of the year – it seems bizarre the at so few don’t offer seasonal recompense for overworking.

Hootsuite, Google and Adidas lead the way when offering exercise options at work for employees to use at their leisure. With thanks to regular running, cycling and HIIT classes – employees are working more effectively and happier than ever. Again, ask your HR representatives to see what additional perks or schemes there are available, that you aren’t already taking full advantage of.

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