Social work tops list of stressful careers, research finds

Social workers and teachers face the highest levels of stress in
the workplace, according to new research, writes Maria
Ahmed.

Occupational psychologists found that social work involved a
high level of “emotional labour” through face-to-face
contacts with clients.

Researchers also found that social workers would be likely to
have to suppress their emotions, adding to the stress of their
job.

The profession was among the top three for physical ill health
related to work stress, along with ambulance service employees and
teachers.

The study, by Clare Millet of Robertson Cooper Ltd, Manchester,
and Sheena Johnson from Liverpool University, said workers should
be provided with training to help them deal with difficult people
and counselling to cope with stress.