How to Manage Work-Related Stress: A Comprehensive Guide for Managers

In today's fast-paced work environment, pressure is inevitable-it's what pushes us to achieve our best. But when that pressure becomes overwhelming, it turns into stress, which can harm both mental and physical health if left unchecked. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), work-related stress, depression, and anxiety are major concerns in Great Britain. In 2024/25 alone, an estimated 964,000 workers suffered from these issues, leading to 22.1 million lost working days. These conditions accounted for around 51% of all work-related ill health.

These alarming statistics underscore why employers must prioritise mental wellbeing. Poor work organisation is directly linked to ill health, and as the HSE notes, organisations have a legal duty to address stress. The good news? Proactive measures can prevent and manage it effectively. This guide, tailored for managers, explores what work-related stress is, its signs, and actionable strategies to foster a healthier team. For broader support in maintaining workplace health, consider exploring comprehensive occupational health services that include everything from health surveillance to wellness programmes.

Understanding Work-Related Stress

The HSE defines work-related stress as "the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed upon them." It's the emotional, mental, and physical strain from job demands that exceed an individual's coping abilities. When employees feel overwhelmed by their work environment, responsibilities, or relationships, stress can escalate into serious issues like anxiety, depression, burnout, lower motivation, reduced performance, and higher absenteeism.

Common causes include:

• Excessive workload: Unrealistic deadlines or an overload of tasks.
• Long working hours: Insufficient breaks or personal time.
• Job insecurity: Uncertainty about job stability or career progression.
• Role ambiguity: Unclear expectations or responsibilities.
• Lack of control: Feeling unable to influence decisions or processes.
• Poor support: Inadequate guidance from managers or colleagues.
• Conflict: Strained relationships with coworkers or supervisors.
• Inadequate resources: Missing tools, training, or information needed for the job.
• Work-life imbalance: Struggles to juggle professional and personal life.

Unchecked, work-related stress doesn't just affect individuals - it impacts overall workplace productivity and morale. As a manager, recognising these triggers early is key to intervention.

Recognising the Signs of Stress in Employees

Spotting stress early allows for timely support. Look out for these common indicators:

• Behavioural changes: Increased irritability, absenteeism, decreased motivation, or difficulty concentrating.
• Physical symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, digestive issues, or changes in appetite.
• Emotional signs: Anxiety, depression, or a general sense of overwhelm.

If you notice these in your team, it's time to act. Equipping yourself with knowledge through mental health first aid training can help you identify and respond to these signs more effectively, building confidence and reducing stigma in your workplace.

Effective Strategies for Managing Work-Related Stress

As a manager, you play a pivotal role in creating a supportive environment. Here are proven strategies to address and prevent stress:

Foster Open Communication

Encourage a culture where employees feel safe sharing concerns. Practise active listening by showing genuine interest and providing empathetic responses. Schedule regular one-on-one check-ins to assess workloads and spot potential stressors early. This simple step can prevent issues from escalating.

Optimise Workload Management

Help your team prioritise tasks for efficient time use. Delegate based on skills and capabilities, and set realistic deadlines to avoid unnecessary pressure. By balancing workloads, you reduce the risk of burnout and enhance productivity.

Introduce Flexible Work Arrangements

Explore options like remote work or flexible hours to accommodate individual needs. Encourage time off for recharging—it's essential for long-term performance. These adjustments can significantly improve work-life balance.

Promote Work-Life Balance

Urge employees to set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Implement wellness initiatives such as meditation, yoga, or health screenings to support overall wellbeing. A balanced approach leads to happier, more resilient teams.

Cultivate a Positive Workplace Culture

Build a supportive atmosphere by recognising achievements and addressing conflicts promptly. Appreciation goes a long way in boosting morale. For deeper insights into creating resilient teams, specialised mental health support services like counselling and trauma management can provide tailored guidance.

Seek External Support When Needed

Sometimes, professional help is the best solution. Encourage access to mental health resources and confidential counselling to address deeper issues.

By implementing these strategies, you'll not only support your employees' wellbeing but also drive team success and organisational growth.

If your team could benefit from dedicated assistance, our iWell Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provides confidential counselling and support services tailored to workplace needs. Visit iWell EAP.