A new study by Acas has found that:- 65% of workers in the North West feel stressed due to the rising cost of living.

Acas commissioned YouGov to ask employees in the North West about whether they feel stressed due to the rising cost of living.

The poll also found that:- 32% of employees in the North West do not feel stressed.

Acas Chief Executive, Susan Clews, said:-  “The cost of living pressures are having a huge impact on many people’s lives at the moment and our poll reveals that a substantial proportion of workers in the North West are feeling stressed as a result. North West employers that support their employee’s mental health at work will be able to spot the signs, help manage them and create an environment where staff can openly talk about anything that is causing them stress. Offering practical tips such as signposting to financial advice can also help. Employees should also look after their own mental health and have some coping strategies to help manage stress. Acas has advice that can help to avoid problems building up and lead to improved morale at work.”

Acas advise for employers on managing staff mental health includes:-

• Be approachable, available, and encourage team members to talk to you if they’re having problems.
   
• Keep in regular contact with your team to check how they are coping.
   
• Respect confidentiality and be calm, patient, supportive and reassuring if a staff member wants to have a chat about their mental health.
• Clearly communicate the internal and external support available to staff.
   
• Look after your own mental health and get support if you feel under more pressure than usual. This support could be a colleague at work, a mental health network, or a Counsellor.
   
• Consider offering practical help such as providing pointers to sources of financial advice or bringing advice providers into work.

Acas advice for workers to support their own mental health and well-being include:-

• Talk to people you work with or friends about how you’re feeling.
   
• Speak to your manager about how you’re doing and your situation.
   
• Reflect on what helps you feel more positive and what does not.

· Make time for activities you enjoy.

· Check with your employer on what support is available at work.

For the full Acas advice, please see:- ACAS.Org.UK/MentalHealth