Stress in the Workplace

by Shirley Archer, JD, MA

In the United States during the 5-year period from 1998 to 2003, more workplace disability benefits were paid for mental health disorders than for any other complaints besides musculoskeletal disorders, according to a report released in June 2005 by the Social Security Administration (SSA Pub. No. 11–11543). Stress in the workplace has become a major problem with more and more workers claiming that depression and anxiety compromise their ability to perform their jobs. The impact of this trend on business is high, in both increased healthcare costs and lost productivity. Since physical activity and mind-body practices positively affect health, mood and feelings of well-being, qualified wellness professionals can provide important services to meet this growing need for support.