Stress in the workplace

Almost six in ten workers are feeling more stressed out and under pressure as a result of the economic climate. This is the key finding of Aviva's latest healthcare report, Health of the Workplace, which also reveals that just under half of employers have no provision for dealing with stress.

Alex Marshall, a business development manager at Aviva, said some of the reasons employees are feeling extra pressure are linked to job insecurity, a strong commitment to their role and the need to provide for their family.

He stated: "Around 37 per cent of employees are failing to take lunch breaks, so as a first step, employers should be encouraging a good work/life balance and promote a culture that encourages staff to take their statutory break. Businesses need to be aware that longer working hours can affect workplace performance." Mr Marshall added that higher numbers of accidents or injuries could result from long hours, leading to an increase in claims of incapacity and long-term sickness benefits. There should be a strong focus on stress management, which should be treated like any other workplace hazard," he proposed.

One of my great PAs, Faye Jennings (now Crisp) had a 'look' that worked wonders when I was starting to get uptight. She would look across at me and shake her head from side to side in what I used to call her 'Stupid Boy' look. It was guaranteed to make me smile and recognise the error of my ways!

Gareth