Work-related stress is not an individual fault, but an organisational issue. It is one of the most important outcomes of a poor psychosocial work environment.

Work-related stress is the second most frequently reported work-related health problem in Europe — after musculoskeletal disorders. Around half of workers consider it to be common in their workplace.

• 50–60% of all lost working days can be attributed to work-related stress.
• The same poll showed that around 4 in 10 workers think that stress is not handled well in their workplace.
• Typically, stress-related absences tend to be longer than those arising from other causes.

The good news is that psychosocial risks can be prevented and manage.

Source: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work.

Protective factors against stress:

• Get involved when possible in a sport or other physical activity. Sport is one of the most powerful protective factors against stress.
• Pursue outdoor activities.
• Practise meditation, Tai-Chi, Yoga, Mindfulness, etc.
• Feel and think positive.
• Smile, your emotions are contagious.