A recent survey highlights a significant rise in UK patients seeking help for work-induced stress and anxiety.
- Research indicates that 92% of UK GPs have experienced an increase in consultations for work-related stress since the pandemic.
- Approximately 68% of GPs have observed a notable rise in such consultations in the last three months.
- Financial insecurity, workplace return, and workloads are identified as major stressors by GPs.
- Flexibility in working conditions and improved mental health strategies are recommended for alleviation.
Research by Perkbox reveals that a compelling 92% of UK GPs have reported an increased number of patients seeking medical advice for work-related stress and anxiety since the outbreak of the pandemic. This notable rise in workplace stress consultations is reflective of broader societal challenges triggered by the pandemic.
In the last three months alone, 68% of surveyed GPs have witnessed a significant uptake in stress-related consultations, suggesting that the issue has been exacerbated as pandemic-related pressures have evolved. This uptick indicates potential ongoing challenges unless proactive measures are undertaken.
Particularly concerning is the heightened impact on younger demographics, with 64% of GPs acknowledging increased stress and anxiety among 16-24-year-olds. Additionally, similar upticks have been observed in the 25-34 and 34-49 age groups, accounting for 54% and 43%, respectively. This age-related distribution highlights the severe pressure young professionals are experiencing.
Financial insecurity is cited by 45% of GPs as the leading cause of workplace stress, followed closely by anxiety over returning to the office setting (43%), and increased workloads (39%). These stressors underline the multifaceted nature of the problem, effectively blending economic and social dimensions.
Employers are urged to address these issues as employee wellbeing profoundly affects workplace productivity and satisfaction. Nearly half of the employees surveyed noted a disruption to their sleep and dietary routines due to stress, and a troubling increase in alcohol consumption was reported by one-third of respondents.
To mitigate these stressors, GPs recommend enhancements in workplace wellbeing strategies, including offering flexible working hours, providing management training in mental health support, and making wellbeing resources readily available. These interventions are echoed by employees, a significant proportion of whom favour more flexible working conditions and improved recognition and rewards.
Failure to address the mental health crisis could lead to lasting repercussions on productivity, as evidenced by the 39% of patients consulting GPs for stress being medically signed off from work. This underscores the importance of strategic employer engagement in mental health initiatives.
Proactive employer strategies and flexible work conditions are essential to curb the rising trend of stress-related consultations reported by GPs.
