Best Practice Guides

Take a look at our full range of Best Practice Guides - outstanding books that bring together highlights from our extensive online member library of best practice materials. Designed not only to inspire, but also to identify practical insight and provide toolkits and hot tips, we intend our resources to help you to raise standards across the industry. Packed with case studies, research, thought leadership and supplier listings, this is the year-round resource that contains the jewels of the year’s best practice.
You need to log in to the website to download an e-book PDF of the Best Practice Guides. Click on My Account at the top right to register or Log In.

Published on 24 September 2025

Can Employers’ Efforts to Reduce Stress Actually Be Making It Worse?

In recent years, more and more companies have started to recognise the importance of mental health and stress management in the workplace. As businesses realise how stress impacts not just employees but also the overall success of their organisation and customer satisfaction, many have rolled out initiatives like flexible working hours, wellness programs, and policies promoting work-life balance. These all sound great in theory, right? But interestingly, some employees report that these well-intentioned efforts are actually causing them more stress.

So, can it be true? Could employers’ attempts to reduce work-related stress actually be adding to it? Maybe, just maybe, there’s a gap between what companies think will help and what employees actually need. Let’s take a closer look at some common workplace strategies, how they sometimes backfire, and what companies can do to truly support their teams.