Abstract of the Idea-
Work-related stress is a major cause of occupational ill health, poor productivity and human error. It can result in sickness absence, high staff turnover and poor performance and a possible increase in accidents due to human error.
Research provides strong links between stress and:
■ physical effects such as heart disease, back pain, headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances or various minor illnesses; and
■ Psychological effects such as anxiety and depression, loss of concentration and poor decision making.
Stress can also lead to other behaviors that can have an adverse effect on psychological and physical health and well-being, for example, social withdrawal,
Aggressive behavior, alcohol/drug abuse, eating disorders and working long hours.
Research has shown work-related stress to have adverse effects for organizations in terms of:
■ employee commitment to work;
■ staff performance and productivity;
■ accidents caused by human error;
■ staff turnover and intention to leave;
■ attendance levels;
■ staff recruitment and retention;
■ customer satisfaction;
■ organizational image and reputation;
■ Potential litigation.
By taking action to manage the causes of stress in your workplace, you can prevent or reduce the impact of these problems on your organization and bring about business benefits.
Problems at work are more strongly associated with health complaints than are any other life stressor-more so than even financial problems or family problems. Many studies suggest that psychologically demanding jobs that allow employees little control over the work process increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Research indicates that job stress increases the risk for development of back and upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders. High levels of stress are associated with substantial increases in health service