Stress counselling in the workplace

Work-related stress is proven to affect employee morale, productivity, engagement and more. All of which can potentially harm your business goals and objectives.

Stress could manifest as a result of increased pressure from work. It could also stem from bullying, harassment or discrimination.

No matter the cause, if left unaddressed stress may become overwhelming. This can lead to other physical, mental and emotional problems.

There are various ways to manage and support employees experiencing stress or other related symptoms at work. This post focuses on counselling for work-related stress.

What is stress counselling?

While stress is a normal part of life and in some cases even manageable without the need for professional assistance, this may not always be the case.

Stress and anger management counselling is the process of talking to a professional psychotherapist about issues an employee may be experiencing.

Within the workplace, an employee assistance programme (EAP) can provide this support for employees. It allows them access to an independent and confidential helpline for them to discuss their issues with trained counsellors.

How does counselling help stress?

Counselling for stress at work aims to identify the causes of an employee’s work-related stress. When conducted in a private and judgment-free environment, it can help the employee to understand the cause of the stress, and find steps to manage and reduce it.

It’s common for people to experience stress at work. But it can affect everything from your mood to the way you treat friends, family or colleagues.

Extended periods of stress can be a risk factor for other underlying issues, such as depression or anxiety. This is when it might be helpful to consider counselling for stress.

As well as helping with identifying the causes of stress, counselling can also help to understand the role that your thoughts play in increasing your stress level.

The process also provides employees with a sounding board to talk about issues that they’re experiencing. It allows counsellors to work with them to develop better ways to manage these issues.

Talking to an experienced professional can provide you with a specific programme based on your particular situation and needs.

The benefits of stress management counselling

Talking is a tried and tested method of overcoming stress, anxiety or depression. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers employees an outlet for any negative thoughts or feelings, which can reduce stress as well as maintain their mental health.

Other benefits include:

• Better self-understanding: With the help of a therapist, employees are able to better understand themselves and find solutions to their problems. This leads to an increase in self-confidence.
• More engaged workplace: While talking to a therapist may not fully eliminate stress, it’s proven to drastically reduce it. Employees may find it easier to cope with, they’re also likely to be happier and more engaged with their colleagues.
• Reduced absences and turnover: When staff are less stressed they’re unlikely to take extended time off work for mental health reasons. And because they’re aware you care about their wellbeing, they’re also less likely to leave your company for a competitor.