Working in Canary Wharf or other areas of central London is often associated with stress; high pressure jobs, long commutes and polluted air can all have an impact on health. Commuting to work on public transport can raise stress levels before we even start work – then in the office tensions can rise. Just when we think the strain of the day is over, we have to face the long, busy commute again.
Top reasons why Londoners are stressed
Demanding working culture
Canary Wharf is renowned as a financial hub – and banking is one of the most high pressured industries to work in. Investment bankers work long hours, with 95% saying they are expected to work weekends. The Metlife UK research also revealed that managers do little to combat stress at work – with just 14% saying bosses have taken action after receiving complaints about pressure. In a fast-paced sector where everybody is stressed, people just have to ‘get on with it’ – until it becomes a ticking time bomb and they are forced to take time off work to recover. Over 11 million working days per year are lost due to stress, anxiety and depression.
Financial worries
One of the major causes of stress, regardless of where you live, is money. Trying to manage your finances is difficult, especially in London where prices are rocketing and the cost of living is so high. Many Londoners also have the worry of getting on the housing ladder, which is near impossible for the majority. The uncertainty of living in rented accommodation and sharing houses can cause stress.
Busy commutes
Getting to Canary Wharf, or wherever your office is based, in the city’s rush hour, can be a challenge. Around five million passengers use the London Underground every day – many travelling at peak times to get to and from work. Commuting in London is often a stressful experience because of overcrowding, and you might have a struggle getting on the trains at all – which could make you late for work, and even more worried.
How to deal with stress
If you think you are suffering from work-related stress, it is essential to seek help. If you are not receiving support from your manager, then visit your GP who will be more understanding. In addition to medication or other treatments to support your mental health, you may find stress has had physical impacts on your body, too. If you have been holding tension in your neck or shoulders, consider chiropractic services which could relieve the pain and improve your posture.
