Project deadlines, juggling different demands and dealing with the unexpected – pressure is all around us at work.
Work-related stress is thought to be the second biggest occupational health problem in the UK, after musculoskeletal disorders such as back problems.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines work-related stress as ‘the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand paced on them at work’.
Employers have a legal responsibility under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 to ensure the health safety and welfare at work of their employees. This duty includes assessing and taking measures to control risks from work-related stress.
Employers also have a duty under common law to take reasonable care to ensure the health and safety of their employees. You can find out more about an employer’s responsibilities at work on the HSE website.
The HSE have developed The Management Standards which describe the main causes of work-related stress and how they can be effectively managed within an organisation.
You can explore these main causes of work stress in this downloadable resource:
Sources of work stress
The following resources can help you to look after your wellbeing at work and help you to find different ways of coping with stress at work.
10 strategies for coping with stress at work
How can I look after my wellbeing at work?
Many people are currently working remotely from the office. We have tips and information to help you look after your wellbeing whilst working from home.
Leeds Mind have produced a helpful flyer for their ‘Have a break, have a chit chat’ campaign promoting wellbeing at work.
Leeds Mind chit chat campaign information sheet
You can find more information about what causes stress and what you can do to feel better in the Stress section.