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Why Australian workers have the highest stress levels

A new report has revealed we’re more frazzled than any other country in the Asia Pacific region.
Stressed woman at work desk
Australian workplaces continue to struggle with supporting their employees. Image: Getty

Regardless of what industry you work in and whether you’re employed by a business or own your own, every role has its stressors.

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But according to new research, Australian workers are feeling the heat more than our counterparts in China, India, Singapore and Japan.

Payroll and HR solution provider, ADP, released their People at Work 2024 report which found that over half (57 per cent) of Australian workers feel stress adversely impacts their work, with the rising cost of living, growing workplace demands, and a general sense of unease contributing factors to our heightened levels of anxiety.

“While many Australian businesses continue to prioritise the mental wellbeing of their employees, our data shows that there is still room for improvement,” Judy Barnett, Operations Director at ADP Australia explains.

“Even with strategic workplace programs in place, the lack of personal support and networks on the ground can still lead to poor mental health, which can negatively impact an employee’s engagement, job satisfaction, and workplace productivity.”

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Stressed worker at office desk
Australian workers are more stressed than ever. Image: Getty

This was evident, with only 21 per cent of people surveyed feeling their employer fully supports their mental wellbeing.

Although it’s worth putting an emphasis on it. The World Health Organisation recently estimated that when employees experience good management, performance increases two and a half times more than when it isn’t a focus for the business.

“Employers should consider re-evaluating existing mental health programs, normalising conversations around mental health, and providing resources to help workers improve their skills in managing conversations in this sensitive space. Implementing or improving valuable third-party resources, such as an Employee Assistance Program, is also an excellent way to provide confidential support and help handle difficult conversations.”

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If you are feeling more spent than usual, taking regular breaks, prioritising important tasks and setting boundaries can all help you to focus and reduce stress. And of course having a conversation with your manager or reaching out to a healthcare professional are both vital steps if you are struggling for a prolonged period of time.

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