Heavy workload driving stress levels of employees in Southeast Asia: report

A heavy workload has emerged as the top driver for the stress experienced by employees in Southeast Asia, according to a new report.

The report, released by Jobstreet and JobsDB by SEEK, surveyed 3,750 hiring professionals across five countries in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia.

Heavy workload was cited by 37% of hirers, and 61% of those in high stress zones, as the reason for employee stress, according to the report.

High pressure from management, or a fast pace or very demanding work environment, was also cited by 27% of hirers.

Source: SEEK

Stress levels at work

The findings come as 71% of hirers rated their organisations as moderately stressful, with the average stress level in Southeast Asia being 5.2 out of 10.

Singapore reported the highest average stress level in SEA with 5.5, followed by Malaysia (5.4) and the Philippines (5.3).

In terms of high stress zones, Malaysia and the Philippines have "slightly more companies" falling in the category, according to the report.

"Companies in this zone may need to implement effective measures to provide support and address the wellbeing of their employees, as well as recognising the importance of fostering a healthier work environment," the report read.

Source: SEEK

Measures of mental health

Amid varying stress levels across SEA, the report found that 48% of companies are "doing enough to help employees cope with stress."

Companies in the Philippines (58%), Thailand (58%), and Indonesia (57%) led the rest of SEA in offering help against stress, it revealed.

Companies in the Philippines are also most likely (62%) to start new initiatives to help employees cope with stress, the report added.

Source: SEEK

SEEK was named as the Best Companies to Work for in Asia in 5-Star Employers of Choice. Read the full report here.