Work-related stress can be defined as the "adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them" at work. Since stress is a major cause of both short and long-term sickness absence, taking targeted action to help employees deal with work-related stress is crucial not only for employee wellbeing but for business success. The 2025 CIPD/Simplyhealth Health and wellbeing at work report found that organisations who invested in employee wellbeing saw a range of benefits, including higher employee engagement (39%), less sickness absence (39%) and enhanced employee performance (38%).

Managers have a role to play in spotting the signs, and managing and reducing workplace stress. They are perfectly placed to support teams to stay happy, healthy and engaged. 

This guide supports managers who want to identify, and reduce workplace stress.

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