Almost one in three employees in Germany feels exposed to various serious stresses at work at the same time

Struggling with multiple work-related stressors isn't uncommon for one-third of German workers

It's a common sight in the daily grind: crushing deadlines, clashes with colleagues, and challenging customers. A survey by the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) reveals that nearly a third of employees in Germany are dealing with these and other serious work stressors at the same time. Conducted between January and April, the study interviewed over 6,000 workers across the country.

The survey unearthed some alarming statistics: 86% of respondents regularly or frequently feel the pressure of time, while 56% wrestle with physically demanding tasks. Noise and related stressors are an issue for 73% of employees, with 40% reporting frequent or regular exposure. Workplace conflicts with colleagues and customers are experienced by 65% of workers, although most report infrequent instances.

The survey recognizes that jobs typically involve a myriad of demands that often collide. Consequently, 31% of all respondents highlighted dealing with all four types of stressors simultaneously.

The health and work ability of those dealing with these stressors are significantly impacted. The survey found that only 39% of employees grappling with multiple physical and psychological stressors consider their health good. Meanwhile, only 7% anticipate a retirement career with these challenges.

Interestingly, just 38% of surveyed employees reported having undergone a job risk assessment within the past two years. Despite this, Germany continues to boast low unemployment rates and a range of employment opportunities across various industries.

Beyond the traditional stressors:

While this survey focuses on the four primary stressors, it's essential to remember that work stressors encompass a broader range of factors. Studies indicate that incomplete or fragmented tasks, unvaried tasks, inadequate task flexibility, emotional dissonance, traumatic events, and interference with work processes can all contribute to stress.

Moreover, poor organization, lack of social support, and destructive behavior from colleagues or supervisors can exacerbate stress. Environment factors, such as noise, poor lighting, and hazardous odors, can also intensify the problem. The accumulation of these stressors can eventually lead to emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, reduced mental and physical well-being, and in severe cases, mental health issues.

Additional insights:

In addition to traditional stressors, other factors contributing to employee stress in Germany include staff availability and workload, workplace rules and responsibilities, financial concerns, and uncertainty and unpredictability.

1. Staff Availability and Workload: Healthcare professionals in a border region found these factors to be significant stressors, as revealed in a study on resilience in healthcare professionals in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine region.
2. Workplace Rules and Responsibilities: Some employees may face restrictions on phone usage during work hours, limiting their ability to engage with personal messages or mental health apps.
3. Financial Concerns: Financial instability can hinder employees' ability to prioritize self-care activities, impacting their mental health.
4. Uncertainty and Unpredictability: Disruptions like changes in work schedules, unpredictable work environments, and the constant need to adapt to new situations can also contribute to stress.

These factors cumulatively exacerbate the overall work-related stress experienced by employees in Germany, particularly in contexts like healthcare and remote work environments.