Stress Awareness Month 2025: How HR Teams Can Support Employee Well-Being

Stress Awareness Month

Workplace stress continues to be a significant concern, affecting both employee health and organisational performance. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), approximately 1.7 million workers in Great Britain suffered from work-related ill health in 2023/24, with around half of these cases attributed to stress, depression, or anxiety.

This equates to an estimated 776,000 cases of work-related stress, depression, or anxiety over the past year, leading to 33.7 million working days lost due to work-related ill health or injury (HSE Report).

As Stress Awareness Month 2025 approaches, HR professionals have a pivotal role in implementing strategies to support their teams effectively.

Understanding Workplace Stress

Work-related stress can stem from various sources, including:

  • Excessive workloads and tight deadlines that lead to employee overwhelm
  • Lack of recognition, reducing motivation and engagement
  • Poor work-life balance, affecting mental and physical health
  • Limited control over tasks or unclear job expectations, creating frustration and anxiety
  • Insufficient workplace support from managers or colleagues
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    By addressing these stressors, HR professionals can help create a healthier, more engaged workforce.

    How HR Can Help Employees Manage Stress

    1. Create a Culture of Recognition and Reward

    Employees who feel appreciated are more likely to stay engaged, productive, and motivated. Implementing a well-structured recognition and reward strategy can significantly reduce workplace stress and boost morale.

    Experience-based rewards offer employees the chance to relax and recharge. Consider:

  • A luxury spa day at Champneys, Bannatyne, or Macdonald Hotels & Resorts
  • An exciting short break at Whittlebury Hall Hotel, Lifehouse Spa and Hotel, or The Athenaeum Hotel
  • A fine dining experience at Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, Marco Pierre White, or Harry Ramsden
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    For tailored solutions, explore our corporate gifting options.

    2. Promote Work-Life Balance

    Encouraging employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance can have a significant impact on stress reduction. HR teams can support this by:

  • Encouraging regular breaks and annual leave to prevent burnout
  • Implementing flexible working options where possible
  • Providing access to wellness resources, such as fitness memberships or mindfulness programs
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    Gifting employees an unforgettable experience, such as a weekend getaway, or a thrilling adventure like bungee jumping or indoor skydiving, can help them recharge.

    3. Foster Open Conversations About Stress

    Many employees are reluctant to talk about stress because of workplace stigma. HR professionals can foster a safe and supportive environment through initiatives such as:

  • Encouraging regular check-ins between managers and employees
  • Providing stress management training to equip employees with coping strategies
  • Sharing resources on workplace mental health, such as Mind UK and Mental Health at Work
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    4. Invest in Employee Well-Being Initiatives

    A workplace that actively supports mental well-being fosters a happier and more resilient team. Businesses can introduce:

  • Employee wellness programs, such as mindfulness sessions or resilience training
  • Recognition events or incentive schemes to celebrate employee achievements
  • Stress awareness activities, such as well-being workshops or dedicated relaxation days
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    Simple yet impactful initiatives, such as gifting employees a wellness retreat at Champneys or Bannatyne, or a fun experience day like a Thames river cruise or a helicopter flight, can go a long way in reducing stress and showing appreciation.

    Why Employee Well-Being Should Be a Priority in 2025

    By investing in employee well-being, businesses can benefit from:

  • Higher employee engagement and productivity
  • Reduced absenteeism and staff turnover
  • A positive workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent
  • Stronger business performance and resilience
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    Stress Awareness Month 2025 is the ideal time for HR professionals to take proactive steps towards creating a healthier, happier workplace.

    For innovative ways to reward and support your employees, explore our range of corporate gifting and rewards. From spa days at Champneys, short breaks at Whittlebury Hall, and fine dining at Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, to thrilling adventures and luxury experiences, we offer stress-relieving rewards that employees will truly appreciate.

    Invest in your team’s well-being today to create a motivated, engaged, and successful workforce for tomorrow.

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