In the U.S., workplace trauma, work-life balance and conflict/tension with managers were among the top concerns. (Credit: fizkes/Adobe Stock)
Employees across the globe are concerned about stress, conflict and performance pressures in the workplace, according to this year’s Psychological Safety Study from Workplace Options.
The annual study, based on conversations between employees and clinicians, looked at workplace concerns in 18 different countries.
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In every country studied, workplace stress ranked as a top worry. Conflict at work is a widespread issue, and performance pressure is a rising concern, with many employees saying they’re struggling to meet expectations. Among young adults, many reported that they’re already feeling burnt out.
In the U.S., workplace trauma, work-life balance and conflict/tension with managers were among the top concerns.
“Company leaders and people managers face an urgent question: Will they create a psychologically safe and engaged workforce, or will they perpetuate a culture of stress and instability,” said Alan King, Workplace Options’ president and CEO, in a statement. “Psychological safety—the belief that employees can express themselves without fear of negative consequences—is no longer just a workplace perk. It is a business necessity.”
Lack of psychological safety among employees can have big consequences for organizations. Failing to address stress and other concerns can lead to higher turnover rates, declining productivity and a disengaged workforce, according to Workplace Options.
“Our study is a wake-up call. If organizations do not prioritize psychological safety now, the next generation will enter a workforce defined by stress, conflict, and disengagement,” said Dr. Kennette Thigpen Harris, chief clinical officer at Workplace Options, in a statement. “Millennials have entered decision-making roles, the opportunity to build a workplace culture defined by trust, respect, collaboration, and wellbeing has never been more urgent.”
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