Stress is the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them. There is a clear distinction between pressure, which can create a ‘buzz’ and be a motivating factor, and stress, which can occur when this pressure becomes excessive. It is inevitable that events both in personal and professional life will prove stressful. Moderate amounts of stress provide the driving force for humankind to function optimally. Undue stress, however, is eventually unsustainable and may in extreme situations result in mental or physical disintegration.

Work-related stress is a major cause of occupational ill health. The costs to society have been estimated by the Health and Safety Executive to be around £4 billion each year. Work-related stress has adverse effects on organizations in terms of:

• Employee commitment to work

• Staff performance and productivity

• Accidents caused by human error

• Staff turnover

• Attendance levels

• Staff recruitment and retention

• Organizational image and reputation.