COMPANIES need to be more aware of the workplace stress burdening its employees as it may have physical and emotional symptoms that could affect their performance while doing work.
Based on a recent study by global provider of integrated employee wellbeing solutions Workplace Options (WPO), 32% of employees contacting the service centres to in search of emotional support were experiencing workplace issues.
Among the top three issues identified were workplace stress (45%), conflict/tension (24%) and performance issues (16%).
WPO president and CEO Alan King emphasises that workplace stress and conflict need greater attention and he hopes the study will be able to help company leaders to better understand the issues faced by their employees.
In fact according to WPO vice president of clinical crisis and specialty services Dr Kennette Harris, individuals experiencing workplace issues or conflict may experience a number of physical reactions caused by the emotional stress.
“Stomach issues, fatigue, and headaches are common physical symptoms associated with stress, while irritability, anxiety, and apathy are common emotional reactions,” Dr Harris explained.
“Over the long-term, unmanaged stress can contribute to a number of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, anxiety, and depression.”
The study revealed that the most frequently reported emotional symptom was stress (55%), followed by anxiety/panic (19%).
Additionally, the study also showed a significant percentage of decreased productivity and increased absenteeism, with the highest rate of absenteeism found in the United Kingdom (47%), followed by France (15%) and the United States (10%).
To help mitigate any workplace issues, employees are advised to seek support services such as counselling and mindfulness training, to alleviate work-related stress and avoid risks of burnout. – July 31, 2021
