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Stress Awareness Week 2025: Tackle workplace stress head-on

Text Reads: Tackle workplace stress. Image of man and woman in work environment, woman is laughing

A little stress is no bad thing - it’s a natural response to challenging situations, and the body’s way of reacting to pressure, triggering physical and emotional changes that help us cope.

But when stress becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can negatively impact health, wellbeing, and performance.

It might manifest as anxiety, irritability, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating, or even physical symptoms like headaches and muscle tension.

Left unmanaged, stress can lead to burnout, absenteeism, and long-term mental health issues.

This year’s stress awareness week is all about managing workplace stress, with a focus on how leaders can create nurturing work environments which allow employees to thrive.

With that in mind, here are five strategic actions employers can take to manage stress and support staff wellbeing:

  1. Make work-life balance part of your organisation’s culture

Encourage employees to take regular breaks, use annual leave, and disconnect outside of working hours. Leaders should model this behaviour to show that wellbeing is a priority, not a luxury.

  1. Ensure mental health support is easily accessible

Provide clear pathways to mental health resources, including counselling, mental health days, and digital wellbeing tools such as SilverCloud® Wales. Regularly communicate what’s available and normalise help-seeking behaviour.

  1. Offer flexible working

Flexibility can be a powerful stress-reducer. Whether it’s remote working, flexible hours, or compressed weeks, giving employees control over their schedules - where possible - helps them manage personal responsibilities and reduce pressure.

  1. Make space and time for open conversations

Foster a psychologically safe workplace where employees feel comfortable discussing stress and mental health. Training, workshops, and peer support networks can help break down stigma and build resilience.

  1. Recognise and celebrate employees’ wins and contributions

Acknowledging effort and achievement boosts morale and reduces stress. Recognition doesn’t have to be grand - simple, consistent appreciation goes a long way in creating a positive work environment.

Support from NHS Wales

If you're looking to enhance your workplace wellbeing offer, NHS Wales provides free access to SilverCloud®, a suite of online mental health programmes. These include guided support for stress, anxiety, low mood, money worries and more, with no GP referral needed.

SilverCloud® uses clinically proven Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques to help users challenge negative thinking and take positive action.

 

Published: 03/11/2025