Coping with Workplace Stress: How Employers Can Help
Workplace stress is on the rise, and many employees are turning to unhealthy coping methods like substance use. This is a big deal for businesses, but it’s also a chance to make positive changes. Let’s break it down.
What’s Happening?
Recent studies show that over 40% of U.S. workers use substances to deal with job stress. This trend is especially common among younger employees like Gen Z and millennials, who report using substances at much higher rates than older generations.
The main causes of stress? Financial struggles, a tough job market, uncertainty about the future, and difficult workplace environments. Many workers are turning to alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, and even prescription medications to cope.
Why Should Employers Care?
Stress and substance use affect productivity, safety, and team morale. Unfortunately, while most employees think companies should offer more mental health support, very few feel like their workplace actually does.
What Can Employers Do?
Here are three simple steps businesses can take to help:
1. Offer Support
Set up programs that give employees access to counseling and resources for mental health and substance use. Make sure health insurance covers these services, too.
2. Create a Positive Culture
Train managers to recognize burnout and substance use and to encourage employees to ask for help. Regular check-ins should focus on how employees are feeling, not just work tasks. A supportive workplace makes a big difference.
3. Encourage Balance
Promote a healthy work-life balance. Encourage employees to take breaks, use their vacation days, and set boundaries for work hours. Unrealistic expectations can lead to burnout, and that’s not good for anyone.
Moving Forward
The numbers might be worrying, but they’re also a reminder that employers have the power to make a change. Supporting mental health, fostering a healthy culture, and ensuring fair workloads are all steps in the right direction.
At Synergy HR, we’re here to help businesses in Harrison, Arkansas, and beyond create safe and healthy workplaces. We also offer drug screening services to support your team’s well-being. Let’s work together to build stronger, healthier teams.
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