RECESSION stress – a condition sparked by the year long period of economic turmoil across the financial world - is taking its toll on North West businesses according to Davenport based occupational health expert Meena Nanavati.

Many companies are experiencing higher than average absenteeism with employees falling victim to a condition that some experts believe is directly linked to the economic downturn and long predicted recession.

Meena explained: "Client companies are reporting an increase in absenteeism due to stress and there is a growing body of opinion that the grim financial news that has been non-stop since Northern Rock hit the headlines more than a year ago, may be one cause.

"Apparently this condition has been referred to as ‘recession stress’ and can affect a wide range of individuals from the boardroom to the shop floor. However, employers who use the services of an occupational health provider like ours are more likely to be able to identify potential problem areas and put in the appropriate measures to deal with them."

The company’s team of doctors and occupational health advisors keep client companies fully aware of trends that may have an impact on their performance using data gathered during site visits. Regular professional absence assessment reports provide an important source of information.

"Uncertainty about the future, financial pressures and fears about losing one’s job can send stress levels soaring and that can have an impact on health," added Meena. "When stress like this is identified the key is to deal with it immediately, initially through counselling.

Cheshire business psychologist Anita Morris said: "Recession stress is a recognised condition and is all about the influence of negativity. It can spread through a workforce in conditions like we have at the moment.

"For the past year or so we’ve been bombarded with gloomy headlines about the economy and a bleak financial future. People are listening to this doom and gloom while they drive to work then discussing crisis after crisis with colleagues and workmates and then drive home listening to more baleful news stories.

"Some people are more prone to the influence of pessimism and if this gets into a workforce it will raise stress levels and have a negative impact on health. From a commercial point of view, chronic recession stress will almost certainly lead to more absenteeism and a downturn in productivity.

"Counselling can help but some companies invest in workplace gyms and bright and cheery canteens to help raise spirits. Research has shown that exercise is one of the best ways of combating stress."