Stress awareness has never been more important in the modern workplace. Research consistently shows that one in four workers report feeling unable to cope with stress at work, a statistic that highlights a growing and genuine challenge for organisations and individuals alike.  At Otto Simon, stress awareness is taken seriously, not only because it impacts productivity, safety and performance, but because people matter.

As a business that works in engineering, we understand the concept of stress in more than one context.  Pipework and mechanical structures subjected to undue loads can cause material to deform, yield and eventually fail.  Like these materials, people too, if exposed to significant and persistent stresses may cause detrimental impacts to our mental health.

Unfortunately unlike steel structures, where the capacity of materials and force they are subjected to can be modelled and calculated, the stresses being put on our mental wellbeing are often multiple and nebulous and there is no clear “Youngs Modulus” or “Yield Point” equivalent to our individual resistance and specific response to different stresses.

By making this distinction clear, we recognises that people are not components to be pushed until failure.  Instead, they are individuals who need understanding, empathy and appropriate support, especially when stress levels begin to build.

Stress does not always originate from the job itself.  Financial worries, concerns for family and friends, exposure to distressing news, and uncertainty about the future can all impact concentration, mood and resilience at work. Acknowledging this reality is essential.  At Otto Simon, there is a clear understanding that stress may arise from both professional and personal circumstances, and support should not be limited solely to issues that occur “on the clock”.

We believe strongly in watching out for our colleagues;  As part of this commitment, Otto Simon has invested in training two Mental Health First Aiders, reinforcing the message that mental wellbeing is valued just as highly as physical health and safety.  These trained individuals act as a first point of contact for colleagues who may be experiencing emotional distress, offering a safe, confidential and non‑judgemental space to talk.

Mental Health First Aiders are not therapists, nor are they expected to “fix” problems.  Instead, they serve as a vital bridge, listening, providing reassurance, and signposting individuals towards appropriate professional support where needed.  By embedding this support within the workplace, Otto Simon continues to foster a culture where conversations about mental health are normalised rather than avoided.

A mentally healthy workforce is a safer, more resilient and more effective one.  High levels of stress can lead to fatigue, distraction and anxiety, increasing the risk of errors and workplace accidents.  Conversely, we believe that when employees feel supported and able to talk openly, they are more likely to seek help early, before stress becomes overwhelming.

Stress Awareness is not confined to a single week or campaign, it is an ongoing commitment.  Through investment in people, open conversations, and practical support, Otto Simon demonstrates that wellbeing is a shared responsibility. Whether stress originates from within the business or from the wider world beyond it, no one is expected to face it alone.