Occupational Health Service

Stress - information for managers

Guidance and advice for managers with staff who are experiencing stress.

Stress is the reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed upon them which are not matched by their ability to cope.

It is both a physiological and psychological reaction which occurs when people perceive an imbalance between the combined levels of demand placed upon them, both at home and/or at work, and their capacity to meet those demands.

Stress can be positive and motivating in the short term, helping to achieve success. Prolonged stress, however, can lead to ill health.

Stress - Managers Risk Assessment (PDF)

Stress - Managers Risk Assessment (Word)

To assist in having the conversation with your staff please refer to the HSE guidance in the link below:

Work-related stress and how to manage it: stress risk assessment - HSE

Related Links

Information on stress for staff

Line Manager Competency Indicator Tool from the HSE

Management referrals

Managers should refer employees to Occupational Health in all cases of sickness absences that last for a period greater than four weeks, or in relation to shorter periods where a possible health issue is likely to have an ongoing effect on work attendance or performance.

Individuals can also be referred whilst they are attending work, if work appears to be affected by a health or mental wellbeing issue.

Management Referrals