The Health and Safety Executive defines stress as the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them.  A certain amount of stress is a good thing and many people work better under pressure. The important thing is to get the balance right. 

The Health and Safety Executive studies confirm that stress is the second largest occupational health problem in Britain. TUC figures show that 3 in 5 workers now complain of stress at work. Those who felt stressed reported more accidents at work, sleep problems, increased alcohol consumption and numerous illnesses including high blood pressure and depression.

In 2004/5, 12.8 million days were lost because of stress, depression and anxiety.  On average, each case of stress-related ill health leads to 29 lost working days. This sets the British economy back £3.75 billion in sick pay, lost production and costs to the NHS, and costs employers around £370,000,000. The scale of the problem is highlighted by research carried out by the Industrial Society which suggests that almost 9 out of 10 workplaces are affected by excessive stress. 70% of HR managers who were questioned believed that juggling work and home demands was a major contributor to occupational stress and 50% felt that unrealistic deadlines and constant time pressures were also a factor. 

In October 2004 the four main Social Partners concluded a framework agreement aimed at tackling the issue of workplace stress. Although this agreement has no legal effect, the Social Partners take on responsibility for its implementation across the EU, through collective bargaining or other agreements. The aim of the agreement is to increase awareness and understanding among employers and workers of the problems caused by work related stress, and how such stress can be prevented.  It outlines common indicators of work related stress and considers measures, which can be taken to prevent or eliminate it.  In the UK this agreement resulted in the “Management Standards approach” to tackling stress, published by the Health and Safety Executive.  It is a practical, proactive guide for management, encouraging a “prevention rather than cure” approach (www.hse.gov.uk/stress/standards/index.htm).