The on-going economic challenges are starting to have a significant impact on both employers and employees alike. Signs of which are demonstrated by people feeling compelled to work longer hours, as they compete to keep their jobs.
A recent report from the Migraine Trust reveals that the number of people suffering from chronic headaches in the UK is increasing and one of the main reasons for this is stress at work, the charity has announced.
The report found that almost one in three people who suffer from migraine have been subject to disciplinary action from their employer because of their condition and almost half believe they have been treated unjustly because of their absence due to the condition. Over 40% feel no support from their bosses and the rest of the staff. Overall, 60% say that their employers have not provided the optimal conditions or have failed to make the necessary changes to facilitate work for people with migraine. As a result of the lack of support and unfair treatment at work, more than one in five of those with migraine have left their jobs.
Meanwhile, unrelated research shows that more than one in three GPs are worried about migraine rates among patients and the vast majority attribute the increase to work-related tension. According to the charity, there are six million Britons affected by chronic headaches, costing the UK economy an estimated £750 million each year.
The situation is aggravated by the fact that many people wait for too long before seeking help. Almost half of the 100 family doctors that took part in the research believe their patients should have looked for medical help much earlier.
Employers should look to implement preventative measures to tackle stress, meeting the problem head on, before it becomes serious. A well thought out and developed employee benefits package can provide useful tools in these situations.
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