The effects of the recession have lead to an increase in the levels of stress felt by UK residents, according to one health insurer.
Research from Aviva UK Health has revealed that stress is one of the most common causes for prolonged work absences.
According to the organisation, stress levels have increased due to the varied financial worries brought about by the economic downturn.
Dr Doug Wright, principal clinical consultant from Aviva UK Health, said recognising the signs of stress at an early stage can help manage the situation.
Early detection of stress could also prevent people having to take breaks from work which could affect their income.
Dr Wright added: "At Aviva we understand that work can be stressful from time to time. We want to demonstrate the importance of recognising the early warning signs of stress and help both businesses and employees to manage this condition.
"Psychological issues such as stress consistently rank top among the causes of long term absence according to claims data from our group risk team – ahead of musculoskeletal disorders and life threatening conditions such as cancer."
Increased stress levels brought on by financial instability could lead many people to seek more immediate ways of boosting their income.
One option open to those who own a property is an equity release scheme which could boost their income with funds taken from the value of their home.
