Are you aware of the stress in your team?

It’s easy to focus on targets and deadlines. But what about the people behind the results?

Stress rarely announces itself. More often it shows up as:

• A dip in productivity or recurring mistakes

• More last-minute absence

• Mood changes or low engagement

• Withdrawing from colleagues

• Trouble focusing or making decisions

Many people stay quiet because they fear being judged. So the most useful thing a manager can do is make it safe to speak up: regular check-ins, genuine listening, and openness about your own pressures.

This International Stress Awareness Week, ask yourself: would your team feel confident telling you they’re struggling?