Balancing the Stress Scale: Employer and Employee Responsibilities in Managing Workplace Stress

In an era where the discourse around work-life balance and employee well-being is more prominent than ever, the question of who holds the responsibility for ensuring that work is not overly hard or stressful becomes particularly relevant. There are nuanced roles that both employers and employees play in managing workplace stress, creating a shared responsibility.

Employee’s Role: The Idea of Personal Responsibility

Central to this discussion is the concept of personal responsibility. Employees, as a general rule, have the autonomy to make career choices that best suit their personal and professional aspirations. This includes selecting roles that align with their capabilities and communicating effectively with their employers about their capacity and well-being. Furthermore, employees must communicate effectively with their employers about their workload and stress levels, seek support when necessary, and utilize offered resources to manage stress and maintain productivity.

Employer's Role: Support and Environment

Employers, for their part, do have a significant role to play. Employers are undeniably pivotal in shaping the work environment. Their responsibilities include ensuring a safe, discrimination-free workplace (whether in person or virtual), setting reasonable expectations, and providing the necessary tools for task completion. This may include things like reasonable working hours, breaks, and, where possible, flexible work arrangements.

That being said, the nature of some jobs inherently involves stress and challenges that cannot be entirely mitigated by the employer. For instance, jobs in emergency services, healthcare, or industries with tight deadlines are naturally demanding and can be stressful due to external pressures that are part and parcel to the industry or role. Employers can, however, significantly impact employee stress through various means (for example, thoughtful job design, supportive organizational culture, accessible mental health resources).

The Subjectivity of Stress and the Need for a Collaborative Approach

Stress is a highly individual experience, influenced by one's resilience, coping mechanisms, and personal life circumstances. What may be overwhelming for one might be stimulating for another. Recognizing this subjectivity is crucial in addressing workplace stress, necessitating a partnership between employer and employee. This collaborative effort involves clear communication, mutual support, and the implementation of strategies aimed at promoting well-being and productivity.

A Shared Journey

The responsibility for managing workplace stress and ensuring that jobs are not overly demanding is a shared one. By fostering an environment of open communication and support, both employers and employees can contribute to a healthier, more balanced workplace. This collaborative approach not only benefits individual well-being but also enhances organizational success.

By: David Freedman, SHRM-SCP

VP Organizational Development at PEAR Core Solutions

Questions? Opinions? Email: dfreedman@pearcoresolutions.com