Prolonged stress significantly impacts heart health, leading to high blood pressure, chronic inflammation, and increased risks of heart attacks and strokes. It also worsens mental health issues like depression and anxiety, further heightening cardiovascular risks.
The Health and Safety Executive highlights six key workplace factors that affect well-being: demands, control, support, relationships, roles, and organisational changes. Among these, perceived control is crucial; when employees feel they lack control, anxiety increases, exacerbating health problems.
While full control may not be achievable in every role, creating a supportive workplace culture is essential. Employees should feel included, informed, and recognised for their performance. Stress responses can manifest physically, leading to long-term health issues if not addressed.
Effective communication and clarity about roles are vital for reducing stress, as they foster a sense of control. Maintaining open lines of communication and ensuring managers are aware of mental health support mechanisms, such as Mental Health First Aiders, is critical. Providing training for managers is essential to help them address stress and anxiety in their teams.
Employees also have a role in managing their well-being. While discussing stress with managers can be challenging, especially during organisational changes, confidential conversations with a counselor through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can be beneficial. Identifying workplace stressors through research and surveys is important. Promoting a healthy work-life balance is crucial, yet many organisations struggle with this, underscoring the need for improved support from management. Addressing these issues can significantly enhance both physical and emotional health in the workplace.
Stress is a significant contributor to heart health, but what can employers do to reduce the impact on their employees physical wellbeing?
