The HSE is raising employers' awareness of the need to tackle work-related stress by distributing information packs at business seminars throughout the country. These detail how people can manage stress in their lives. The HSE is giving practical information to employers about what they could and should be doing to reduce stress at work.

Some key facts :-

• Work-related stress effects about one in five workers: around 5 million people;

• The cost to Britain's economy is estimated at 6.7 million working days lost each year.

• Stress costs between about £3.7 billion and £3.8 billion.

• Prolonged or intense stress can lead to mental and physical ill health, such as depression, back pain and heart disease.

The same survey found that commuting is the single biggest cause of stress for many people. Researchers found many people believe it is more stressful than problems with work, home or even money.

The HSE has published some guidelines to help workers avoid stress.

• Avoid nicotine, caffeine, too much alcohol and tranquillisers;

• Work off stress with exercise;

• Do not put off relaxing and get enough sleep;

• If you get sick, take a break;

• Try to avoid interpersonal conflicts;

• Accept what you cannot change;

• Manage your time better and delegate;

• Plan ahead - if you say no now you will prevent stress in the future.

The survey has refuted the theory that new technology, such as the internet, emails and mobile phones, are a leading cause of stress. Just one in five said they found these to be causing a problem in their daily lives.

What does stress do to us?

• The blood pressure goes up;

• The heart rate increases;

• The stomach acid increases.

• This shuts down the intestines and stops them from digesting food properly;

• Chronic stress can effect the immune system. This can lead to increased risks of catching colds and developing asthma.

• The shoulders become tense and cause headaches.

One big problem in diagnosing stress is that people often use the word as another way of saying they are angry, sad or upset.

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