American workers are feeling way more stressed than two years ago, with the share of employees feeling “very stressed” nearly doubling since 2024. More than half (53%) also report feeling burned out on the job. 

Searches for “how to handle stress at work” have soared by 250% over the past month. Concerningly, U.S. employee engagement has plummeted to a decade low, with just 31% reporting that they feel engaged at work – the lowest level since 2014. 

In recognition of Stress Awareness Month, business experts at Liquidation Centre are urging employers to take action and have shared six strategies to help tackle workplace stress and build a healthier, more supportive environment:

  • Give employees more autonomy over how they work: Micromanagement breeds stress, and trust is the antidote. One of the most effective ways to support employee well-being is by giving people greater freedom in how they work. That could mean flexible hours, hybrid work setups or letting teams choose the tools and processes that suit them best. Even simple changes like setting core hours for collaboration while allowing flexibility around start and finish times can make a big difference. When people feel ownership over their time, they’re more engaged, more motivated and far better equipped to thrive.
  • Make mental health days a no-questions-asked policy: Just like we take sick days for colds or the flu, employees should feel empowered to take time off for their mental well-being, without guilt or scrutiny. It’s about creating a workplace culture where mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Equip managers with the tools to encourage this practice and trust your team to use it responsibly. When mental health days are treated as a vital part of the work-life balance, they not only help prevent burnout but also contribute to a more productive workplace.
  • Train teams on stress reduction techniques: One-off seminars won’t cut it. Invest in ongoing, interactive training that teaches employees practical skills like box breathing, mindfulness journaling and progressive muscle relaxation. Host lunchtime “mental fitness” sessions, engaging workshops or run challenges like a seven-day gratitude journaling streak. Companies that weave these into their daily work life see higher uptake and more sustainable results. Pro tip: Encourage senior leaders to get involved – their visible participation not only sets a positive example but also reinforces the legitimacy of these initiatives.
  • Think about workplace design that soothes, not stresses: Your office layout can either drain your team’s energy or recharge it. Harsh lighting, noisy open-plan spaces and uninspiring décor can elevate stress and reduce focus. Studies reveal that adding plants can help lower tension, anxiety and fatigue by 38%. Consider a biophilic design by bringing in natural light and greenery into your workspace. Set up quiet zones with comfortable seating and acoustic booths for deep work or mental resets. For remote workers, consider providing wellness allowances for ergonomic home setups or additional items like air purifiers to show you care truly about their well-being.
  • Create clear, accessible paths to support: Support systems work only if people know it’s there and feel safe using them. Whether it’s having in-house mental health champions or access to external therapists, visibility is important. These resources need to be clearly signposted and regularly brought to people’s attention. Don’t let them fade into the background after onboarding – use multiple channels to build regular, low-key reminders into your culture. Share quick links in internal newsletters, pin information in Slack channels or add a Get Help button to your company’s HR platform.
  • Clarify roles to reduce ambiguity: A major – and often overlooked – cause of stress is not knowing what’s expected. When roles or responsibilities are vague, it creates anxiety, second-guessing and wasted energy. Employers should regularly review job descriptions, align responsibilities with evolving business needs and ensure employees understand their reporting lines and performance metrics. Implement tools like RACI charts (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) to map out decision-making roles, and hold regular check-ins to clear up any grey areas. When people know what success looks like, they feel more confident and in control.

“Stress Awareness Month should encourage businesses across the U.S. to slow things down and really listen,” said Richard Hunt, Liquidation Centre director. “People do not expect perfection – they want to feel supported, trusted and able to switch off when the day is done. Simple things like being clear, fair and realistic can make a big difference. Looking after people properly is what keeps a business steady over time. When people feel better, they work better, and that is something every organization depends on.”