Advantages of Stress Reduction Programs

While stress cannot be eliminated from life, or even from the workplace, coping skills may be developed with relative ease. Stress management skills lead to decreased absenteeism and more effective, more productive employees.

Because stress has been shown to contribute to such physical conditions as ulcers, high blood pressure (BP) and stroke, stress reduction has a direct impact on bettering physical health.

Studies have shown that heart patients who attend stress management programs have 42% lower healthcare costs. Other studies have documented a 50% reduction in medical services use when stress management programs are employed.

Further, Worker Assistance Program (EAP) experts estimate that 20 percent of any workforce is affected by personal problems that can influence work performance.

Stress reduction tactics to consider –  

• Offer onsite yoga or meditation classes.

• Organize support groups among employees.

• Sponsor stress management classes during the workday.

• Offer an worker assistance program that includes both counseling and referral.

• Offer onsite counseling for staff members with a work-related trauma, like the death of a peer.