Stress can build up over time, especially in a health and social care environment. This stress can affect staff wellbeing, and the quality of care provided to those you support. As a leader, you can take practical steps to help your team manage pressure and stay resilient. 

Spot the Signs Early 

Spotting signs early is crucial for a healthy and happy staff team. The signs to look out for are: 

• Increased absences  

• Irritability  

• Drops in performance 

• Short fuses  

Early recognition will allow you to provide support before stress escalates.  

What Can I Do? 

Spotting signs is one thing, but ensuring your staff team manages their stress is another. So, what can you do to help? 

• Hold one-to-one check ins. This gives you an opportunity to ask your team how they are coping and provide opportunities to discuss challenges they are facing in a confidential environment.  

• Encourage realistic workloads. Provide flexible shifts where possible and ensure that your staff team are taking their breaks.  

• Offer practical support. Provide access to training on resilience, mental health first aid, or stress management techniques. 

• Build team connections. This can be done through team huddles, peer support, any social moment. All can help your staff team feel supported and reduce isolation.  

Supporting your staff team’s mental wellbeing, not only ensures your staff team are managing their stress levels but providing quality care as well. Ensure your staff team are stress free! Find out more HERE.