Tools for individual employees

<p>A number of individual tools shown to help reduce symptoms of stress, and improve individual and organisational outcomes, are delivered in one to one or small group settings by a qualified or trained practitioner. Examples are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or relaxation therapy, each of which have their own suite of tools and exercises to foster the skills and thought processes relevant to reducing stress. We have provided some useful links to free to use resources from reputable sources, and provided information on how to access relevant professionals. Given the significant number of practitioners in this field, we are not able to endorse individuals here, nor are we able to detail specific exercises that require supervision and guidance by trained professionals.&nbsp;It may also be important for you to understand stress at work in terms of employment law so we have included some useful summaries. We are not&nbsp;able to recommend legal advice, but if you&nbsp;require advice we suggest contacting Citizens Advice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/">https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>It may also be useful to refer to the individual tools in the topic Mindfulness in the workplace, for more information about these mindfulness tools please&nbsp;click <a href="http://affinityhealthhub.co.uk/explore-evidence-and-tools/mindfulness-in-the-workplace/tools-for-individual-employees" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a></p>
Author:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a talking therapy developed to help you change the way you think, feel and behave. Working with a therapist, CBT provides the opportunity to identify and challenge negative thinking patterns and behaviours. Where appropriate, General Practitioners can refer patients for CBT, and it is often offered through Employee Assistance Programmes.

 

For those accessing CBT privately, there are two useful registers:

The British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) keeps a register of all accredited therapists in the UK. http://www.cbtregisteruk.com

The British Psychological Society keeps a Directory of Chartered Psychologists, some of whom note a specialism in CBT. http://www.bps.org.uk/bpslegacy/dcp

Author:

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a type of meditation that originated in Buddhism and as well as increasing popular attention, there is a growing evidence base to support its benefits. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn and his colleagues (Kabat-Zinn, 1982). Mindfulness is a mental state that is achieved by focusing on the present moment, while acknowledging and accepting feelings and thoughts. Through learning to be fully present in the moment, we create space to accept and respond in new ways, therefore influencing the way we behave to different situations. This website has a number of useful Mindfulness meditations and resources.
Author:

Relaxation

Relaxation interventions can vary in nature but share the belief that through activating the body’s natural relaxation response, we are better able to counteract the harmful effects of stress on our nervous system to bring our body and mind back into a state of equilibrium. There are a range of techniques, including but not limited to breathing meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, visualisation meditation and yoga. Mind, the mental health charity, has some useful information, tips and exercises.
Author:

Exercise

Exercise has also been found to buffer the effects of work stress. We haven’t linked to specific resources as the opportunities to engage in exercise are extensive – but we didn’t want to miss it off just because there are not any formal guidance notes or strategies!
Author: Mind

Guide for employees: Wellness Action Plans (WAPs) How to support your mental health at work

The guide can be used by employees who are experiencing a mental health problem or those who want to use the WAP as a proactive tool. The concept of a Wellness Action Plan is based on Mary Ellen Copeland’s Wellness Recovery Action Plan which is an evidence-based system that people use in the management of their mental health. A WAP can be used by employees to help them recognise what enables them to stay healthy at work, what factors are associated with them becoming unwell and how to tackle a mental health problem at work if they are experiencing one. It can also aid employees in discussions with managers about how managers can better support their mental health. To obtain this guide you need to provide your name, occupation and email address.

Author: Mind

Accessing support

There are a number of resources available through the National Health Service. General Practitioners are a useful first point of contact as they will be able to direct you to appropriate support services, with many practices offering mindfulness training, relaxation therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. While not specific to the workplace, the NHS has some useful guidance for individuals to help manage and relieve stress: Reduce StressWays to Relieve Stress. Mind, the mental health charity, has a range of resources for individuals experiencing stress, anxiety or depression including a help line, local support groups and guidance material.

Author: Wellmind Media and the Mental Health Foundation

BeMindful

This Mindfulness course is produced and run by Wellmind Media in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation. The course teaches participants key aspects of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).  The course is 10 sessions and research suggests that participants who completed this course displayed a decrease in perceived stress, anxiety and depression after the course and at 1 month follow up. 

 

Please note although there are some free introductory sessions, the course costs £30. 

Author: Unison

Stress at work. A guide for UNISON safety reps.

This guide defines stress, causes of stress and symptoms of stress. It then provides information for safety reps to enable them to represent, negotiate, campaign and organise around stress at work, for example what support should be provided for stressed workers.

Author:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a talking therapy developed to help you change the way you think, feel and behave. Working with a therapist, CBT provides the opportunity to identify and challenge negative thinking patterns and behaviours. Where appropriate, General Practitioners can refer patients for CBT, and it is often offered through Employee Assistance Programmes.

 

For those accessing CBT privately, there are two useful registers:

The British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) keeps a register of all accredited therapists in the UK. http://www.cbtregisteruk.com

The British Psychological Society keeps a Directory of Chartered Psychologists, some of whom note a specialism in CBT. http://www.bps.org.uk/bpslegacy/dcp

Author:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a talking therapy developed to help you change the way you think, feel and behave. Working with a therapist, CBT provides the opportunity to identify and challenge negative thinking patterns and behaviours. Where appropriate, General Practitioners can refer patients for CBT, and it is often offered through Employee Assistance Programmes.

 

For those accessing CBT privately, there are two useful registers:

The British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) keeps a register of all accredited therapists in the UK. http://www.cbtregisteruk.com

The British Psychological Society keeps a Directory of Chartered Psychologists, some of whom note a specialism in CBT. http://www.bps.org.uk/bpslegacy/dcp

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Author:

Mindfulness

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a type of meditation that originated in Buddhism and as well as increasing popular attention, there is a growing evidence base to support its benefits. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn and his colleagues (Kabat-Zinn, 1982). Mindfulness is a mental state that is achieved by focusing on the present moment, while acknowledging and accepting feelings and thoughts. Through learning to be fully present in the moment, we create space to accept and respond in new ways, therefore influencing the way we behave to different situations. This website has a number of useful Mindfulness meditations and resources.
Author:

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a type of meditation that originated in Buddhism and as well as increasing popular attention, there is a growing evidence base to support its benefits. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn and his colleagues (Kabat-Zinn, 1982). Mindfulness is a mental state that is achieved by focusing on the present moment, while acknowledging and accepting feelings and thoughts. Through learning to be fully present in the moment, we create space to accept and respond in new ways, therefore influencing the way we behave to different situations. This website has a number of useful Mindfulness meditations and resources.

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Author:

Relaxation

Relaxation

Relaxation interventions can vary in nature but share the belief that through activating the body’s natural relaxation response, we are better able to counteract the harmful effects of stress on our nervous system to bring our body and mind back into a state of equilibrium. There are a range of techniques, including but not limited to breathing meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, visualisation meditation and yoga. Mind, the mental health charity, has some useful information, tips and exercises.
Author:

Relaxation

Relaxation interventions can vary in nature but share the belief that through activating the body’s natural relaxation response, we are better able to counteract the harmful effects of stress on our nervous system to bring our body and mind back into a state of equilibrium. There are a range of techniques, including but not limited to breathing meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, visualisation meditation and yoga. Mind, the mental health charity, has some useful information, tips and exercises.

x
Author:

Exercise

Exercise

Exercise has also been found to buffer the effects of work stress. We haven’t linked to specific resources as the opportunities to engage in exercise are extensive – but we didn’t want to miss it off just because there are not any formal guidance notes or strategies!
Author:

Exercise

Exercise has also been found to buffer the effects of work stress. We haven’t linked to specific resources as the opportunities to engage in exercise are extensive – but we didn’t want to miss it off just because there are not any formal guidance notes or strategies!

x
Author: Mind

Guide for employees: Wellness Action Plans (WAPs) How to support your mental health at work

Guide for employees: Wellness Action Plans (WAPs) How to support your mental health at work

The guide can be used by employees who are experiencing a mental health problem or those who want to use the WAP as a proactive tool. The concept of a Wellness Action Plan is based on Mary Ellen Copeland’s Wellness Recovery Action Plan which is an evidence-based system that people use in the management of their mental health. A WAP can be used by employees to help them recognise what enables them to stay healthy at work, what factors are associated with them becoming unwell and how to tackle a mental health problem at work if they are experiencing one. It can also aid employees in discussions with managers about how managers can better support their mental health. To obtain this guide you need to provide your name, occupation and email address.

Author: Mind

Guide for employees: Wellness Action Plans (WAPs) How to support your mental health at work

The guide can be used by employees who are experiencing a mental health problem or those who want to use the WAP as a proactive tool. The concept of a Wellness Action Plan is based on Mary Ellen Copeland’s Wellness Recovery Action Plan which is an evidence-based system that people use in the management of their mental health. A WAP can be used by employees to help them recognise what enables them to stay healthy at work, what factors are associated with them becoming unwell and how to tackle a mental health problem at work if they are experiencing one. It can also aid employees in discussions with managers about how managers can better support their mental health. To obtain this guide you need to provide your name, occupation and email address.

x
Author: Mind

Accessing support

Accessing support

There are a number of resources available through the National Health Service. General Practitioners are a useful first point of contact as they will be able to direct you to appropriate support services, with many practices offering mindfulness training, relaxation therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. While not specific to the workplace, the NHS has some useful guidance for individuals to help manage and relieve stress: Reduce StressWays to Relieve Stress. Mind, the mental health charity, has a range of resources for individuals experiencing stress, anxiety or depression including a help line, local support groups and guidance material.

Author: Mind

Accessing support

There are a number of resources available through the National Health Service. General Practitioners are a useful first point of contact as they will be able to direct you to appropriate support services, with many practices offering mindfulness training, relaxation therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. While not specific to the workplace, the NHS has some useful guidance for individuals to help manage and relieve stress: Reduce StressWays to Relieve Stress. Mind, the mental health charity, has a range of resources for individuals experiencing stress, anxiety or depression including a help line, local support groups and guidance material.

x
Author: Wellmind Media and the Mental Health Foundation

BeMindful

BeMindful

This Mindfulness course is produced and run by Wellmind Media in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation. The course teaches participants key aspects of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).  The course is 10 sessions and research suggests that participants who completed this course displayed a decrease in perceived stress, anxiety and depression after the course and at 1 month follow up. 

 

Please note although there are some free introductory sessions, the course costs £30. 

Author: Wellmind Media and the Mental Health Foundation

BeMindful

This Mindfulness course is produced and run by Wellmind Media in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation. The course teaches participants key aspects of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).  The course is 10 sessions and research suggests that participants who completed this course displayed a decrease in perceived stress, anxiety and depression after the course and at 1 month follow up. 

 

Please note although there are some free introductory sessions, the course costs £30. 

x
Author: Unison

Stress at work. A guide for UNISON safety reps.

Stress at work. A guide for UNISON safety reps.

This guide defines stress, causes of stress and symptoms of stress. It then provides information for safety reps to enable them to represent, negotiate, campaign and organise around stress at work, for example what support should be provided for stressed workers.

Author: Unison

Stress at work. A guide for UNISON safety reps.

This guide defines stress, causes of stress and symptoms of stress. It then provides information for safety reps to enable them to represent, negotiate, campaign and organise around stress at work, for example what support should be provided for stressed workers.

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Author: Slater and Gordon

Occupational Stress

Occupational Stress

Slater and Gordon are a well known UK law firm. One of the areas in which they specialise is personal injury. Recently there have been a greater number of personal injury claims based on psychological problems as a result of stress at work. This article discusses two recent cases relating to stress at work and developments that have occurred as a result of these cases. 

Author: Slater and Gordon

Occupational Stress

Slater and Gordon are a well known UK law firm. One of the areas in which they specialise is personal injury. Recently there have been a greater number of personal injury claims based on psychological problems as a result of stress at work. This article discusses two recent cases relating to stress at work and developments that have occurred as a result of these cases. 

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Author: Thompsons Solicitors

Stress at work

Stress at work

This page summarises the law regarding stress at work.  It demonstrates what workers need to prove, the importance of whether the stress was foreseeable and what the law says.  The page also discusses the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

Author: Thompsons Solicitors

Stress at work

This page summarises the law regarding stress at work.  It demonstrates what workers need to prove, the importance of whether the stress was foreseeable and what the law says.  The page also discusses the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

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Author: Landau Law Solicitors

Stress at work

Stress at work

This page defines stress and covers key elements relating to stress at work.  For example, the employer’s responsibilities are discussed as well as practical actions employees can take if they feel stressed at work. As stress in some circumstances may be considered a disability, disabilities and discrimination are also discussed. 

Author: Landau Law Solicitors

Stress at work

This page defines stress and covers key elements relating to stress at work.  For example, the employer’s responsibilities are discussed as well as practical actions employees can take if they feel stressed at work. As stress in some circumstances may be considered a disability, disabilities and discrimination are also discussed. 

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Author: Headspace

Headspace

Headspace

Headspace is a course of guided meditation sessions and Mindfulness training which can be accessed either online or through a mobile app. Research suggests Mindfulness and meditation are associated with improved stress, anxiety, focus, creativity and relationships. Headspace have a free 10 session programme, Take10, where you can learn the basics of mediation, however further courses require a paid subscription.

Author: Headspace

Headspace

Headspace is a course of guided meditation sessions and Mindfulness training which can be accessed either online or through a mobile app. Research suggests Mindfulness and meditation are associated with improved stress, anxiety, focus, creativity and relationships. Headspace have a free 10 session programme, Take10, where you can learn the basics of mediation, however further courses require a paid subscription.

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Author: Stanford SPARQtools

Rethinking Stress toolkit

Rethinking Stress toolkit

Stanford SPARQ is a “do tank” that partners with industry leaders to tackle disparities and inspire culture change using insights from behavioral science. This Rethinking Stress toolkit is part of the SPARQtools which tranlsate cutting-edge research into instructions and materials that practitioners and educators can use to sparq psychological, behavioral, and societal change. This tool is based on research conducted by Crum, Salovey and Achor (2013). This intervention works best for people who worry that stress is harmful and can help individuals to reframe stress. The intervention is comprised of a number of videos and actions. A workbook is also provided and a pre and post survey is available for individuals if they would like to evaluate the toolkit. 

 

Author: Stanford SPARQtools

Rethinking Stress toolkit

Stanford SPARQ is a “do tank” that partners with industry leaders to tackle disparities and inspire culture change using insights from behavioral science. This Rethinking Stress toolkit is part of the SPARQtools which tranlsate cutting-edge research into instructions and materials that practitioners and educators can use to sparq psychological, behavioral, and societal change. This tool is based on research conducted by Crum, Salovey and Achor (2013). This intervention works best for people who worry that stress is harmful and can help individuals to reframe stress. The intervention is comprised of a number of videos and actions. A workbook is also provided and a pre and post survey is available for individuals if they would like to evaluate the toolkit. 

 

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