Introduction
At times, work can feel rewarding and fulfilling but it can also become a source of overwhelming pressure when work becomes stressful. If you’ve ever felt exhausted, anxious, or disconnected from your work, you’re not alone. Workplace stress and burnout affect thousands of employees across different industries, impacting both an employee’s wellbeing and performance.
At the WEU, we believe your health matters. That’s why we are providing more information to help you better understand stress and burnout, recognise the warning signs, and equip yourself with strategies to thrive at work.
This information is for you, your colleagues, and anyone who believes that a healthy, supportive workplace is worth building together. The information is just guidance to helping you explore ways to help cope and enjoy work.
Just One Approach to Defining Workplace Stress
There are many definitions of workplace stress but overall it can be explained as having an adverse mental, emotional, and physical reactions that occur when work pressures become overwhelming or difficult to manage. It can be a result result from a number of reason for example:- from a mismatch between job demands and an individual’s ability to cope, from poor working relationships etc.
It can happen when work requirements exceed an employee’s skills, resources, or needs, and it can affect individuals in any industry. Workplace stress happens when your job asks more of you than you feel able to give, draining your energy and affecting your well-being. it can happen to anyone, no matter what field of employment you’re in.
(below are not exhaustive lists but are examples and points to help understand)
Some Causes of Workplace Stress
- Excessive Workload: Too much work for the time available.
- Lack of Control: Limited influence over tasks or processes.
- Poor Relationships: Conflict or lack of support from colleagues or management.
- Job Insecurity: Fear of redundancy or organizational changes.
- High Demands: Unrealistic targets or constant pressure.
Signs and Symptoms of Workplace Stress
Physical:
- Headaches
- Stomach issues
- Fatigue
- Sleep difficulties
Emotional:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Feeling overwhelmed
Behavioral:
- Withdrawal
- Reduced motivation
- Poor concentration
- Altered eating or sleeping patterns
Impact of Workplace Stress
- Reduced productivity
- Increased absenteeism
- Higher turnover rates
- Increased risk of accidents and errors
Over the next few months, the WEU will discuss these topics in more detail.
Managing Stress at Work: Tips and Guidance
- Create a Calm Work Environment:
Use music or headphones to minimise distractions. - Take Time Out:
Regular breaks and fresh air improve wellbeing and boost productivity. - Communicate Anxieties:
Talk to a friend, colleague, or manager. Seek professional support if needed. - Reorganise Workload:
Prioritise tasks and seek help when necessary. - Relax:
Practice relaxation to ease physical tension.
National Stress Awareness Day
- Date: Wednesday, November 5th, 2025
- Occasion: 25th Anniversary of National Stress Awareness Day
- Organised by: International Stress Management Association (ISMA)
- Purpose: To raise awareness of stress issues, reduce stigma, and promote overall wellbeing.
Burnout
Definition of Burnout
Burnout is the loss of meaning in one’s work, combined with mental, emotional, and physical exhaustion caused by long-term, unresolved stress. It often affects those who are highly committed and passionate about their jobs.
Symptoms of Burnout
(This is not an exhaustive list)
- Negative, critical attitude at work
- Dread of going to work and eagerness to leave
- Low energy and lack of interest in tasks
- Frequent absences and sleep difficulties
- Physical complaints (e.g., headaches, back pain)
- Feelings of emptiness and disillusionment
- Irritability with coworkers or clients
- Doubts about the meaning or impact of one’s work
- Blaming others and contemplating quitting
Stress vs. Burnout
| Aspect | Stress | Burnout |
| Duration | Short to medium term | Long-term, ongoing |
| Cause | High demands, feeling out of control | Disillusionment, sustained overload |
| Feelings | Anxiety, urgency | Emptiness, cynicism, disengagement |
| Resolution | Eases when pressures are reduced | Requires deeper changes in environment or mindset |
Conclusion
As a member of the WEU your wellbeing is important to us. Reducing workplace stress is important to us as we know it helps our members to have a full, meaningful life inside and outside of work.
Stress and burnout are not signs of weakness; they are signals that something needs to change. By staying informed, reaching out for support, and taking proactive steps, you can protect your health, reignite your energy, and rediscover your sense of purpose.
The WEU is here to support you if you start to experience issues at work and understand that these issues can be a cause of stress.