In the financial crisis in 2009 many companies had to downsize, meaning the employees who were left were expected to take on an increased workload, often without an increase in pay. Many companies have chosen not increased their staff levels, safe in the knowledge work is being handled by fewer employees.
In 2014/2015 the number of work related stress, depression and anxiety illnesses hit 440,000 cases, which equates to 1380 workers out of 100,000 suffering with an illness related to their career and their increased responsibilities.
The total number of days lost due to work related stress and illness hit 9.9 million, that equates to 23 days lost per person. This figure has a huge impact on industry as companies ultimately have to pay the price for a reduced staff rate. It also adds even more pressure for the staff that are left to pick up the additional load.
The types of careers most effected by stress related illnesses are; education, health and social care, public administration and defence, with media and public service professionals being high on the list too.
Interestingly an area situated on the outskirts have found a lot of employees are suffering from the strain of their career. Its is believed has a higher number of issues due to its close proximity to the city and the types of careers people are choosing within the area. The increase in counsellors in an area has also increased to keep up with demand.
If you are and suffering from the strains of your career, where can you turn to for help? Most people will initially seek help and guidance from their local doctors, they will typically be assessed in a short appointment. The doctor will either give medication to help with sleeping or to calm their nerves or they will be recommended to see a counsellor who specialises in work related stress.
Counsellors typically have years of experience and a number of qualifications to ensure they are able to handle your unique and individual situation. Counsellors will offer a confidential service and safe space so you can explore and talk about the difficulties you are going through in your life and career.
Looking for someone you can talk to is a huge step to ensure you can start to feel better, stress can have a huge impact on all aspects of your life. You may find your family relationships have suffered and you find it hard to talk to anyone about your condition.
It is believed men are less likely to share their problems, as they feel they have let themselves and their families down and feel embarrassed in admitting they have an issue.
Looking for a counsellor who specialises in work related stress and who is fully qualified will ensure you receive the right advice. Many will be members of the BACP, which ensures they follow and are governed by rules of ‘best practice’ for all of their patients.
There are a number of practices you will be able to approach to find the help you need. There are also practices you can contact online, simply search within or your local area and a list of practices you can choose from will be given.
Ensuring the counsellor you choose to speak with is fully qualified and has experience will make your journey to recovery even easier.
