April marks Stress Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of stress, its impact on our health, and how to manage it effectively. Stress is a natural response to challenges and pressures, but when left unchecked, it can have serious consequences for both individuals and businesses.
As an employer, understanding stress and moreover, recognising its impact in the workplace is crucial to fostering a supportive environment. At Acorn Occupational Health, we provide tailored services to help employees manage stress effectively and ensure organisations can take proactive steps in supporting their workforce.
What is Stress?
Stress is the body’s response to external pressures, often referred to as ‘stressors.’ These can stem from work, financial difficulties, relationships, health concerns, or other life events. In small doses, stress can be beneficial, helping individuals stay motivated and focused. However, chronic stress can negatively impact both mental and physical health.
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Stress
Short-Term Effects:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Headaches and muscle tension
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability or mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
Long-Term Effects:
- Increased risk of anxiety and depression
- Cardiovascular issues, including high blood pressure and heart disease
- Weakened immune system
- Digestive problems
- Chronic fatigue and burnout
Recognising Stress in the Workplace
Workplace stress can arise from excessive workloads, tight deadlines, poor management practices, or a lack of work-life balance. Recognising the symptoms of stress early can help employers take action before it affects performance and wellbeing.
Common Signs of Stress in Employees:
- Increased absenteeism or frequent sick leave
- Decline in work performance and productivity
- Changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal or irritability
- Complaints of fatigue, headaches, or other physical ailments
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Low morale and disengagement
How Acorn Occupational Health Can Help
Supporting employees through stress management initiatives can improve overall wellbeing and create a healthier workplace culture. Acorn Occupational Health offers several services to assist organisations in addressing stress effectively.
- Management Referrals
Our management referral services helps employers identify and address stress-related concerns within their workforce. We conduct thorough assessments and provide recommendations on reasonable adjustments, workplace modifications, and strategies to improve employee wellbeing.
- Resilience and Wellbeing Assessments
For employees experiencing ongoing or complex mental health challenges, our resilience and wellbeing assessments provide a deeper understanding of their needs. Additionally, these assessments offer valuable insights into the support structures and workplace adjustments required to help employees remain productive and engaged.
- Counselling Services
Sometimes, employees need additional professional support. Counselling services provide employees with a safe space to talk about their stressors and develop coping strategies. Acorn works with a network of BACP registered counsellors. By offering access to qualified professionals, businesses can help employees manage their stress more effectively and improve their overall mental health.
- Stress Awareness Training
Prevention is just as important as intervention. Our stress awareness training equips managers and employees with the tools they need to identify and manage stress. This training covers:
- Understanding the causes and effects of stress
- Recognising early warning signs in oneself and colleagues
- Effective coping strategies and relaxation techniques
- How to create a more supportive workplace culture
Supporting Employees Struggling with Stress
Employers can support employees by encouraging self-care strategies such as regular physical activity, mindfulness exercises, and setting healthy work-life boundaries. Providing access to mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), can be beneficial. Additionally, directing employees to reputable charities like Mind or Samaritans can offer them further guidance and professional support.
This Stress Awareness Month, take the opportunity to assess how your organisation supports employees in managing stress. Simple steps such as encouraging open conversations about mental health, promoting regular breaks, and providing access to occupational health services can make a significant impact.
Contact Us
At Acorn Occupational Health, we are committed to helping businesses foster a healthy, productive work environment. If you’d like to learn more about how our services can support your team, get in touch with us today.
📞 Call: 01260 277797
📧 Email: website@acornoh.co.uk