Survey: Canadian workers are stressed

The latest Desjardins Financial Security National Health Survey from 2009 has found that workers in Canada are feeling more stressed than in previous years.

Close to 30 percent of Canadian workers are more stressed this year than last, citing low pay, work overload, a lack of recognition and negative work environment as their top stresses. The news isn't all negative though. Participants do take proactive steps to manage work stress include changing their personal need for perfection at work, learning new working styles and being more realistic when deadlines are urgent. "The good news from the survey is that employees are taking steps to improve their stress levels," said Michele Nowski, Director of Disability Income Claims and Disability Management with Desjardins Financial Security. "It's important to be good to yourself, which is the secret to managing your stress." The survey found that Canadians for the most part are passionate about their job and love their co-workers. Seventy-six per cent are satisfied with their job. Employers who responded to the 2009 survey said that they felt their organization support their employee's work-life balance. "Similar to last year's survey results, we're seeing an expectations gap between employers and employees," said Nowski in a press release. "Employees and employers are not struggling with the same work-related issues. While it seems simple enough to suggest providing better recognition and improving the work environment, ultimately the best way to tackle this issue is through teamwork and communication."