The study, which surveyed over 2,000 UK professionals and comes in time for Blue Monday, also reveals that work stress has resulted in 44.6% of workers having trouble sleeping, 39.7% suffering from negative thoughts and 38.9% feeling exhausted. When asked what causes them the most anxiety at work, respondents cited the following:
- Having to meet unrealistic targets – 31.3%
- Having to work long hours – 29.9%
- An excessively high workload – 29.1%
- Pressure from their manager – 26.8%
- Tight deadlines – 22.2%
Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library, comments:
“While some professionals thrive on keeping busy, it shouldn’t get to a point where they’re taking work home with them, struggling to sleep or constantly feeling exhausted; and as an employer, you have a duty of care towards your team.
“Be sure to create an open channel of communication so employees know they can come to you with any concerns they may have about their workload. Nowadays, addressing mental health and prioritising the wellbeing of employees is crucial for organisations; particularly when it comes to attracting, recruiting and retaining the best workers.”
What’s more, the study also shows that two thirds (65.3%) of professionals worry about letting their team down if they’re unwell, with a further 58.1% fearing they’re disappointing their employer.
Biggins continues: “The stress epidemic is becoming a serious issue in the UK and isn’t set to disappear any time soon. But that’s why employers need to understand how to tackle it and support employees in the workplace. Any company can offer a competitive salary, but only a few can offer an environment that truly prioritises the wellbeing of its teams.
“When writing your job adverts and advertising your roles, consider highlighting any services you offer that support mental health in the workplace. This can really help to sell your jobs to candidates and position you as an employer of choice.”
