Submitted by Nunzia leonardi

1,The Financial Costs of Stress

Research carried out by the Health and Safety Council estimates that stress and mental illness continues to be neglected by many businesses, both small and large. And the economic impact of this is huge, costing employers around £26bn a year. Stress at work can lead to a lack of concentration, fatigue and low motivation, all of which will cost the company in terms of low productivity, customer satisfaction and the very reputation of the company itself. Employers are being urged to become more "emotionally intelligent" and to improve the way they deal with stress and mental illness.

2.Speak up about Stress   

Many people find it difficult to talk about their feelings, particularly if we're feeling weak or vulnerable. However, when suffering from stress it’s vital you seek help. It's important to feel you can talk honestly with a close friend, a loved one, a work colleague or doctor about what’s going on. Stress is easily diagnosed and there is plenty you can do to successfully treat and manage stress. One of the most effective of these is to share your feelings with those you trust. Remember that accepting help and support is not a sign of weakness. Close relationships are vital to helping you get through this tough time.

Write your essay in 240-280 words.

Essay on stress

Both texts are related to the social problem of stress and mental illnesses, but they focus on different aspects. The first one underlines the impact of stress at the work place and the financial consequences of ignoring it. While the second one remarks the importance of acknowledging the problem and talking about it as a strategy to deal with it.

Regarding stress at work, when facing a condition of stress, a worker will not be able to maintain his normal standard of productivity because of a lack of energy and concentration. In the worst case scenario, this may also expose the worker and his colleagues to the risk of work-accidents. We have also to consider other possible damages affecting the reputation of the company, which may result in a loss of customers.

Regarding possible solutions or remedial actions, most people who are stressed, make the mistake of thinking that they can solve their problem without any help. But health statistics and scientific studies prove them wrong. Experts in stress are of the opinion that it can be successfully cured, but the first step is to recognize it as a problem and to ask for professional help.

The way I see it, stress is not as a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of, but rather a negative mental state that can be prevented and "cured", Since we spend most of our time at work, I am of the opinion that companies should play an active role helping their employees in the prevention of stress. It would be also ideal if they could implement health programs and provide spaces for their workers to talk, as specialists suggest that speaking about one´s problems helps.

280 words