
Stress management in the workplace
Learn more about the signs of stress and what you can do to help prevent, and manage, stress at work.
Spotting signs of stress
Understanding and spotting the signs of stress can be an important first step toward tackling it.
Stress is how the body reacts to challenges or problems. Small problems can add up and cause long-term stress.
Signs of stress can include:
-
Physical symptoms
- Headaches or dizziness
- Muscle tension or pain
- Stomach problems
- Chest pain or a faster heartbeat
- Sexual problems
-
Mental symptoms
- Trouble focussing
- Struggling to make decisions
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Constantly worrying
- Being forgetful
-
Changes in behaviour
- Being irritable and snappy
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Eating too much or too little
- Avoiding certain places or people
- Drinking or smoking more
If stress isn’t managed it can lead to serious health problems, including anxiety, depression and burnout.
Page last reviewed: 26th March 2025
