How to reduce stress in the workplace

The way we feel about our job can contribute massively to our overall wellbeing, but what happens when it becomes overwhelming or stressful?

According to HSE, work-related stress, depression and anxiety cost the UK 22.1 million working days in 2024/25 (compared with 17.1 million working days in 2022/23). It goes to show how important it can be to address workplace stress quickly, otherwise you could be faced with taking a significant amount of time off.

With that in mind, here are some simple and fun suggestions that you might want to consider to relieve workplace stress.

Stay active

Exercise releases endorphins (hormones known for lifting our mood), which can help us deal with stress and low mood.

Some employers provide gyms for their employees, but as this might not be possible for all, there are other ways you can bring exercise into your work day. One idea could be a lunchtime run club, which may boost the mood and bond within your team.

It doesn’t have to stop at running either. You could ask your employer to consider negotiating reduced rates at local gyms or leisure centres, whether for a membership or specific sports class.

Take a break in nature

The natural world is incredibly soothing, but in an office environment, it can be difficult to remember that there is a world out there free from carpets, rows of desks and blaring telephones.

Try to use your lunch break to take a walk around the nearest park or green space. If there isn’t a park nearby, you could always bring potted plants into the office and suggest that the team waters and cares for them.

Get some perspective

When we’re super stressed, there may come a point where it’s more important for us to regain a healthy perspective than it is for us to complete our workload.

Missing a deadline isn’t the end of the world and neither is making a mistake. Acting honestly and dealing openly with problems could prove much more effective than scrabbling to cover up mistakes you’ve made or continuing to pretend that you can deliver the undeliverable.

To help yourself cope, you could think about taking a break, walking away from the work and getting some perspective on the situation.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to a colleague or your manager, as they may be able to offer some support or redistribute some tasks.

Bring in your pets

This may sound like a strange idea, but having an animal around the place could bring people together. Allowing employees to bring their pets to the office can also offer some work-free enjoyment.

In fact, a study by Purina found that 45% of people with pets at work say it creates a more relaxed atmosphere, while 40% say it enhances work-life balance.

While these tips could prove effective for many people, there's no shame in finding that you are unable to shift your feelings of stress or anxiety through these techniques alone. If this is the case, then speak to your doctor and employer.