Workplace stress is on the rise, and HR professionals and managers are feeling the pressure more than ever. According to Corndel’s 2025 Workplace Training Report nearly 49% of HR leaders experience anxiety at least once a week, with 20% feeling it daily. The wider workforce isn’t faring much better – 51% of employees report weekly anxiety, showing that stress is a growing issue across all levels of an organisation.
This highlights the increasing importance of HR training, manager training, and HR support group networks in fostering a healthier, more productive work environment. When HR teams and managers receive the right training and support, they are better equipped to manage stress, lead effectively, and create a positive workplace culture.
Why Are Stress Levels So High?
The report pinpoints two key stressors that contribute to workplace anxiety:
• Heavy workloads (44%) – Many professionals, particularly those in HR and management, are expected to juggle multiple responsibilities without adequate resources or support.
• Workplace relationships (27%) – Poor communication, unclear role expectations, and conflicts within teams can significantly impact stress levels.
HR professionals often find themselves responsible for resolving workplace issues without having the authority to drive real change. This can lead to burnout, frustration, and a disconnect between leadership and HR teams.
The Importance of HR and Manager Training
One of the key findings in the 2025 Workplace Training Report is that 97% of HR leaders believe leadership training is effective in reducing workplace anxiety. This is a powerful statistic – it shows that when managers and HR professionals receive proper training, they feel more in control, better equipped to handle workplace challenges, and less overwhelmed.
But leadership training isn’t just about reducing stress; it’s about building stronger teams, improving communication, and fostering a workplace culture where employees feel valued and supported. Training helps HR professionals and managers:
• Develop essential leadership skills – From conflict resolution to effective decision-making, the right training empowers leaders to manage teams more efficiently.
• Improve work-life balance strategies – HR training equips professionals with the tools to promote healthier working environments and policies.
• Strengthen workplace relationships – Effective communication and team-building techniques help to reduce misunderstandings and tension within teams.
By investing in HR training and manager training, organisations can not only reduce stress but also enhance productivity, employee engagement, and overall workplace satisfaction.
Bridging the HR Support Gap
Despite the benefits of workplace training, many employees still lack adequate support. The report found that:
• 55% of employees haven’t received any mental health support
• Only 43% have been offered resilience training
These figures suggest that while some organisations are making progress, there is still a long way to go in providing the necessary support systems. One way to address this is by establishing HR support group networks—platforms where HR professionals and managers can connect, share experiences, and access resources.
HR support groups:
• Provide peer-to-peer guidance – HR professionals can exchange ideas, solutions, and strategies with others in similar roles.
• Reduce isolation – Many HR professionals report feeling like they’re handling workplace issues alone. Support networks offer a community to lean on.
• Encourage continuous learning – Regular discussions, webinars, and training sessions within HR networks keep professionals updated on best practices.
These networks ensure that HR professionals and managers don’t feel like they are dealing with workplace challenges in isolation. They provide a space to collaborate, problem-solve, and share insights that benefit the wider organisation.
Benefits of Investing in Training
Prioritising HR training, manager training, and HR support group networks isn’t just about employee well-being—it has direct benefits for businesses too. Organisations that invest in these areas see:
• Higher employee engagement – Well-supported HR teams and managers create a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated.
• Improved staff retention – Employees are more likely to stay in an organisation that actively supports mental well-being and professional development.
• Better productivity – Reduced stress and stronger leadership contribute to a more efficient and effective workforce.
By taking proactive steps – whether through leadership training, resilience workshops, or fostering a culture that prioritises well-being – businesses can create an environment where both employees and managers feel empowered to succeed.
Final Thoughts
If your organisation hasn’t yet prioritised HR and manager training, now is the time to start. We are holding a number of HR Peer Support Workshops throughout 2025. If you want to know more, please view the training workshops page on our website. We also offer People Management Workshops which can be tailored to your business needs. Contact your account manager or call us on 0141 459 7458 to book.
