The third Monday in January is now hailed in popular media as ‘blue Monday,’ supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Symptoms of work related stress amongst workers will often peak in January following the return to work after the Christmas break. These can manifest as sleep problems, night sweats, mood disturbance, low self-esteem and loss of appetite. Leading East London NHS Consultant clinical psychologist Graham Fawcett states that ‘an important step in tackling stress is to identify the triggers, spot the symptoms and take steps to manage stress.’
Therefore it is vital that workers and organisations take steps to manage stress. The top five tips from Graham Fawcett are:
- Personal Care
Regular exercise and a healthy balanced diet are integral to improving mood. Studies show exercise is a great stress reliever and the endorphins released help improve mood. Sleep is also vital and individuals should aim for 7-8 hours per night, anything less than 3 hours increases an individual’s susceptibility to stress.
- Regain Control
Working in an environment where you feel an element of self-control can help to mitigate the risk of stress. Small changes to take control of your working day will assist with this. An example would be to rearrange the order of your day so you feel more in control of the tasks ahead.
- Teamwork
Managers have a vital role in caring for their team and seeking to reduce stress levels. They should seek to act as positive role models managing workloads in a calm and organised manner. In addition an approachable manager creates a supportive environment where employees can discuss their issues and find a resolution.
- Organisational led change
Organisations should aim to facilitate a motivated and contented workforce. This should include a zero tolerance policy for bullying and harassment.
- Ask for help
‘A problem shared is a problem halved’ may sound like a cliché. However talking can often be the most effective stress reliever. Talking to family or friends can be helpful and further advice and support can be obtained from your GP.
From a legal perspective, employers have a duty of care to their employees to protect them from an injury to their health attributable to stress at work. Therefore employers who fail in their duty could be exposed to claims for compensation.
Those suffering with work related stress may be able to claim compensation for the impact matters have had on their health, the cost of any necessary treatment on a private paying basis and lost earnings from their employer.
The legal position for those who have suffered or who are suffering with stress at work is complex.
Oakwood Solicitors are specialists in these types of claims and are able to advise and assist you in respect of a claim.
If you believe that you would benefit from legal advice on this matter or believe you may have a claim against your employer, please call us on 0844 499 9302 or email stress@oakwoodsolicitors.co.uk
