Washington — Job insecurity is triggering workplace stress for more than half of employees, while nearly 2 out of 5 fear losing their job amid ongoing government layoffs, results of a recent survey show.
On behalf of the American Psychological Association, Harris Poll researchers recently conducted an online survey of more than 2,000 adult workers in the United States. They found that 54% of respondents agree that job insecurity has had a “significant” impact on their stress levels at work. Meanwhile, 39% expressed concern about losing their job within the next year as a result of government policy.
Other findings:
- 55% of the workers strongly agreed with the statement, “During the workday, I typically feel tense or stressed out.” That compares with 52% who strongly agreed with the statement, “Things feel uncertain at my job right now,” and 46% who strongly agreed that “My work environment has a negative impact on my mental health.”
- 75% of the workers between the ages of 18 and 25 and 65% of those 26-43 said job insecurity was a significant stressor. That compared with 46% of the respondents 44-57, 34% of the workers 56-64, and 26% of those 65 and older.
- Among the workers who are worried they might lose their job in the next year because of government layoffs, 44% are concerned that work stress makes it difficult for them to sleep.
“In recent years, awareness has grown around the profound impact the workplace has on people’s mental health,” APA CEO Arthur C. Evans Jr. said in a press release. “This year’s survey makes one thing clear: unmanaged stress is not just a personal health issue – it’s a critical organizational risk, contributing to lower productivity and higher turnover.
“Employers have a responsibility to go beyond awareness and invest in evidence-based strategies that promote workers’ psychological well-being. At the same time, employees must recognize the importance of prioritizing their mental health and be empowered with the skills and support to do so.”
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Original article published by Safety+Health an NSC publication