The economic cost of workplace stress in Australia is over AU$14 billion and spiralling upwards, with a huge loss of productivity. [1]
Absenteeism is on the up, and presenteeism is another concerning byproduct of stress and mental health related unwellness. Presenteeism is the all-too common occurrence of people being present at work but not productive.
Former chairman of the ACCC, Professor Allan Fels, said “Poor resilience is more significant for our economy than tax and micro-economic reforms.”
Not only is this problem reflected on a company’s bottom line, much worse is the personal cost incurred to people due to mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression. People seek relief in alcohol, drugs, food, social media and other forms of escape; generally, well before they will seek professional support.
What is causing all this stress?
Simply, the pace of life and work today puts greater demand on our mental health. There are many factors and life experiences that are stressors in the workplace and in our personal lives.
• Financial strain
• Relationship deterioration
• Loss of a parent, friend or loved one
• Poor physical health and fitness
• High workload
• Tight deadlines
• Difficult colleagues
• Pressures of frequent change
Our overall Mindset Fitness and resilience is measured across six key domains. Purpose, composure, reasoning, tenacity, collaboration and health. If any of these functions are diminished, a person is at much greater risk of succumbing to the effects of stress