October Editorial

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), in 2014/2015, 440,000 people in the UK reported work-related stress at a level they believed was making them ill. That's 40% of all work-related illness.  Psychological problems, including stress, anxiety and depression, are behind one in five visits to a GP.
Some pressure at work can be motivating, but when it becomes excessive it can eventually lead to work-related stress.

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​A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step - Laozi

The pressure of an increasingly demanding work culture in the U.K. is one of the biggest and most pressing challenges to the mental, emotional and physical health of our workforce today.

The cumulative effect of increased working hours together with a busy lifestyle has a huge effect on our health and wellbeing and can prove to be detrimental to our physical, emotional and mental health.

Many think that success only comes with a burnout price tag but the evidence is that reducing exhaustion and stress leads to an improvement in health and wellbeing and thereby an increase in employees’ productivity and retention.

In today’s fast moving technological age where we are all ‘connected’ 24 hours each day it is important to find ways to manage our stress by finding techniques to enable us to achieve some ‘downtime’ and give ourselves a little peace. Adding a little more fresh air and exercise to your daily routine might work wonders for you whilst another will find a meditation or mindfulness practice more helpful. It’s important to recognise what the triggers are to your own work issues and find what works for you in dealing with them. This will leave you feeling empowered and more able to cope with the stresses and strains of your day.

We hear much about the work-life balance. In truth both can be equally pressured. When juggling work and home, it’s usually you who misses out! Even if it’s not easy to take time for yourself, try to ensure that you are nourishing yourself properly and not just running on sugary foods and drinks. Use the stairs instead of the lift. You will get a little more exercise each day and also a bit more time for you. Don’t underestimate the value of short breaks. A wise man once said that one long deep breath is in itself a meditation.

Luckily more and more companies are coming to realise that not only do they have a responsibility to the wellbeing of their employees but that having a Corporate Workplace Wellbeing program in place will reduce absenteeism from stress and anxiety related issues whilst increasing attendance, motivation and productivity.

A Corporate Wellbeing Company will be able to suggest an appropriate plan for your particular needs.
If your Company does not provide a Wellbeing programme you could consider setting up one yourself with work colleagues. Just taking that lunch break will be a step in the right direction!

Reading our articles this month will give you a good range of ideas as to what you can do to help yourself and what can be done by companies to ensure the wellbeing of their employees.

I hope you enjoy every one.

Here’s to your very good health!
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Amanda Sharman