20 January 2025

Stress, anxiety and depression among leading causes of workplace illness

HEALTH AND SAFETY

HSE has released guidance on tackling workplace stress after statistics show almost half of work-related illnesses are mental health-related. 

That’s an estimated 776,000 cases with each case taking an average of 21.1 days off work.

stress-leading-cause-workplace-illness

All employers are required by law to prevent work-related stress and help support good mental health in their employees. A great way to do this is by carrying out risk assessments that include stress and acting on any issues that are flagged. 

You can also:

Learn how to prevent stress in 5 steps

HSE's free online learning will guide you step-by-step and provides all the tools, templates and information you need to get proactive on preventing stress and supporting good mental health at work.

  • Reach out and have conversations - see the Talking Toolkit for help 
  • Recognise the signs and causes of stress - the Stress Indicator Tool could be useful
  • Respond to any risks you’ve identified
  • Reflect on actions you’ve agreed and taken
  • Make it Routine - how can you make this part of your every day?

Source: Online