Work-related stress is defined as a harmful reaction that people have to undue pressures and demands placed on them at work. By its very nature, stress is difficult to measure. HSE’s preferred data source for calculating rates and estimates for work-related stress, depression or anxiety are self-reports from the Labour Force Survey (LFS).
In 2021/22 there were an estimated 914,000 workers affected by work-related stress, depression or anxiety. This represents 2,750 per 100,000 workers and results in an estimated 17 million working days lost.
Of the 914,000 workers suffering from work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2021/22 an estimated 452,000 believed it was caused or made worse by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic the predominant cause of work-related stress, depression or anxiety from the Labour Force Survey (2009/10-2011/12) was workload, in particular tight deadlines, too much work or too much pressure or responsibility. Other factors identified included a lack of managerial support, violence and bullying, organisational changes at work and role uncertainty (lack of clarity about job/uncertain what meant to do).
The Working Minds campaign aims to ensure psychological risks are treated the same as physical ones, that employers recognise their legal duty to prevent work related stress to support good mental health in the workplace, and that they have the tools they need to do achieve this.
One way to achieve good mental health in the workplace, is to have an appointed Mental Health First Aider. Mental Health First Aid courses offer learners to develop essential knowledge of the context of mental health and wellbeing, promotion of mental health and wellbeing, mental health problems: associated issues and consequences, understanding mental ill health and working in mental health.
If you would like to learn more about Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), feel free to contact us below:
01782 438813
Commenti