It’s International Stress Awareness Week, a crucial moment to reflect on the pervasive issue of stress in our lives. Whether at work, school, or home, stress can affect anyone and its impact can be profound. This week serves as a reminder to raise awareness about stress, understand its effects, and explore effective strategies for managing it.
Celebrating its 50th year, the 2024 campaign theme is to reduce stress and improve wellbeing. Alarmingly, 1 in 5 workers have taken time off due to mental health issues linked to stress and the figures are worse for our young people.
In our 2024 Youth Voice Census report, 3 in 5 young people reported that stress and pressure was increasing in the workplace (61%) and more than a third of young people are struggling with their wellbeing at work (34%). We heard at length that young people were concerned about a lack of work-life balance, financial worries, and additional responsibilities that come without proper support or compensation.
With work-related stress becoming a growing concern for young people, it’s crucial for employers to foster a supportive environment that prioritises employee wellbeing.
What Can Employers Do To Support Young People in the Workplace?
We recently hosted a roundtable discussion with our Youth Ambassadors, where they shared their thoughts on how employers can better address workplace stress. Here are their key suggestions:
- Create an Open Culture: Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges e.g. regular 1-2-1 meetings.
- Clear Communication: Make sure young workers know who they can talk to if they have concerns or need support.
- Establish a Youth Network: Set up a platform where young employees can connect with each other for support and guidance.
- Lead by Example: Encourage senior leaders to take regular breaks, modeling healthy work habits for younger staff.
Our Youth Ambassadors emphasized the importance of consistently valuing employee wellbeing and providing robust support systems for those who may be struggling.
Employers play a vital role in helping young people transition into and thrive in their careers. Our Membership provides resources to enhance youth employment practices and support young employees’ wellbeing.
Let’s work together to make a positive impact during International Stress Awareness Week and beyond.
