Stress woes pack a punch: Keas survey

It’s no secret that abnormal levels of stress can worsen, or perhaps even cause, a myriad health issues from depression to obesity and diabetes. According to a new survey from Keas, up to 41% of your workforce may be suffering from above average levels of stress.

In a survey of 762 workers across the U.S., 41% reported having above average stress levels. Among those, more than three-in-four reported unenthusiastic, disengaged or only generally satisfied with their jobs. Comparatively, among those who reported average levels of stress, 48% say they are excited about and engaged in their jobs, and only 2% are disengaged.

Other findings – among workers who report above average levels of stress – include:

• 72% of women experience above average levels of stress, compared to 28% of men.

• 40% of both millennials and baby boomers report above average stress levels and 41% of Gen X is overly stressed.

• 40% say they aren’t getting enough sleep at night, 24% of which say work-related issues are the reason why.

• 66% say they regularly drink alcohol.

Employees who experience normal levels of job-related stress, meanwhile, report being happier, more well-rested and more engaged at work.
“Employee stress needs to be a greater part of the conversation around workplace health,” says Josh Stevens, Keas CEO. “As employers re-evaluate their health programs for employees and begin developing a culture of health, they must also consider how stress prevention fits into the bigger picture. Major health issues associated with stress cause problems that ultimately affect the bottom line. Identifying what causes stress and providing resources to help mitigate the negative effects can be the difference between a healthy, engaged and productive workforce and the less-than-ideal alternative.”