Stress in the workplace

In the UK it is estimated that workplace related stress is responsible for 6 million days of sick leave a year, with stress being related to many minor and major illnesses. 
BUPA's Health Information Team 2004

Three in every five employees suffer from stress at work, according to a recent survey released by the TUC. 
Guardian Unlimited

Stress at work is estimated to cost the economy £7billion a year in sick pay, lost productivity and NHS bills. 
Guardian Unlimited

What is stress? Look an angry tiger!

When faced with a challenge, the body responds biochemically. The reactions involve virtually every part of the body, adrenaline speeds up the heart and respiration rate and increases muscles tension. Noradrenalin and cortisol raise blood sugar levels for quick thinking and for the extra energy needed to deal with conflict. Thyroxin stimulates the body to react quickly and endorphins act as natural painkillers. The digestive system contracts, the skin sweats and the mouth turns dry. These are the autonomic responses of our fight or flight mechanism and cannot be controlled voluntarily.

This is exactly what you need if faced by an angry tiger, however in modern commercial life this reaction may happen several times a day with no acceptable way to run or fight to burn off the excessive hormone secretion. This leaves people tired, irritable, anxious, frustrated and susceptible to illness.

The results of stress in the workplace

High levels of absenteeism
Increased staff turnover
Poor job performance
Low morale
Low worker commitment
Increased frequency of accidents
Difficulty in retaining good staff members

All these effects can result in direct and indirect costs to your organisation, even possible litigation.