Editor's comment: under pressure

Our cover feature highlights a vital issue in the workplace: stress. Few of us like to admit it when we’re under pressure.

Could it be seen as a sign of failure? Will an unscrupulous colleague take advantage of our perceived ‘weakness’ and go for a job opportunity we might have wanted to pursue ourselves?
 
As any mental health charity will tell you, the important starting point in challenging excessive stress is to be willing to speak openly about it. 
 
The article on page 28 explains that stress at work is as much a health and safety issue as having the correct guidance on lifting a heavy item. 
 
In an increasingly tough financial environment, where there is continual change and churn, many members in the NHS feel under great pressure. It’s vital to acknowledge how workplace pressures affect you – and, as a result, on your patients too.
 
But it’s difficult to act on your own. The CSP is building a campaign, meanwhile, that will give you the tools to address these growing concerns. Watch this space in the new year. 
 
Meanwhile, on 10 October a number of ‘tea and talk’ events will support World Mental Health Day. 
 
Why not use the stress article and the column by Kim Sunley (page 20), to start a conversation, perhaps over a cuppa with your colleagues?
 
  • Lynn Eaton managing editor Frontline and head of CSP member communications 
 
 

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