Stress levels on the rise

UK professionals are getting more stressed, according to the latest research commissioned by Regus, the flexible workplace provider.

The research found that two-fifths (43%) say their stress levels have risen over the past year, and workers pinpointed the top stress triggers as their job (55%), personal finances (48%), customers (32%) and management (26%). Continuing instability in the economy, concerns over jobs and the rising cost of living are thought to have fuelled this growing pressure.

Back in April, research conducted for Regus showed that 65% of professionals had taken on additional duties during the economic slowdown which have not subsequently been picked up by new staff, as employers strive to do more with less.

When quizzed about possible solutions, two in three respondents (63%) identified flexible working as a way for employers to reduce staff stress, such as granting workers a degree of choice in work location as well as hours.