Stress affects more than nine in 10 employees, according to a report by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA). When employees or co-workers experience stress, they may contribute to accidents, cause injuries, or underperform, which increases your company's liability and risk. You may have adequate liability insurance for your business, but take these steps to reduce stress in the workplace as you protect your employees and your company.
Recognize the signs of workplace stress
Look for these potential physical, psychological, emotional, and behavioral signs of stress.
Physical signs
- Aches, pains and tension.
- Low immunity.
- Digestive issues.
- Weight fluctuation.
- Physical tiredness.
- High blood pressure.
Psychological signs
- Inability to concentrate.
- Indecisiveness.
- Memory lapses.
- Distractibility.
- Reduced creativity.
- Worry.
- Negative thinking.
- Depression and/or anxiety.
Emotional signs
- Irritability.
- Mood swings.
- Sensitivity to criticism.
- Defensiveness.
- Lack of motivation.
- Anger.
- Low confidence.
- Low self-esteem.
Behavioral signs
- Workaholism.
- Self-neglect.
- Social withdrawal.
- Decreased interest in pleasurable or relaxing activities.
- Increased reliance on alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, or drugs.
- Poor time management.
- Absenteeism.
- Recklessness.
- Aggressive or anger outbursts.
Identify the main causes of stress in your company
To address stress properly in your workplace, first identify the sources of stress your employees experience. Common causes include:
- Too much or not enough responsibility.
- Lack of training.
- Unclear expectations.
- Job dissatisfaction.
- Unsafe working conditions.
- Relationship strains among co-workers.
- Personal problems.
Solve workplace stress
To address stressors in your workplace, take these practical steps.
- Create an open-door company culture. Encourage staff members to talk about their concerns, including factors that contribute to stress.
- Re-evaluate duties and responsibilities. Ensure each staff member has the right training and the right position that maximizes their talents, skills, interests, and education.
- Hire a professional stress consultant. Role-playing, talking, and hands-on stress management exercises can improve employee coping skills.
- Schedule massages, reflexology, and aromatherapy sessions. Give staff opportunities to unwind in a private office or spa setting.
- Play games. Make time to have fun and build relationships as a team by providing card games in the break room, using creative prompts during brainstorming, or planning outdoor activities.
- Encourage a healthy lifestyle. Educate employees on the benefits of good nutrition, hydration, exercise, and self-care, and remind them to use their health benefits to prioritize well-being.
- Celebrate Stress Awareness Day. Take time to focus on stress reduction and consider a company-wide team-building day that reduces digital overload and promotes connection.
Your business relies on healthy employees who show up ready and able to work all day. If your business operates in a specific retail or service niche, learn about relevant coverages like Bicycle-related suppliers insurance and Cardiac Stress Testing Center Insurance.
If you want to review your company's coverage, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common signs that an employee is experiencing workplace stress?
Common signs include physical symptoms like headaches and fatigue, psychological issues such as trouble concentrating, emotional changes like irritability, and behavioral shifts such as increased absenteeism or substance use.
How can employers begin to reduce stress among staff?
Start by creating an open culture for communication, reviewing workloads and training, and offering practical supports like flexible scheduling and wellness resources.
When should a company bring in a professional to help with stress?
Consider a professional when stress affects productivity, safety, or employee health despite internal efforts, or when tailored interventions are needed for high-risk roles.
Can workplace stress affect a company's liability?
Yes; stress-related mistakes or accidents can increase the risk of injuries, claims, and higher operational costs, so prevention and documentation are important.