Employers who are struggling with managing stress in the workplace may find they start experiencing headaches and stomach pain as a result.

According to a new study published in the European Journal of Work and Organisational Psychology, workers can suffer from somatic symptoms as stress manifests itself physically.

The researchers, from the University of Haifa, revealed that managers can help staff who are dealing with stress by offering emotional and practical support, such as by reducing their workload or providing them with stress management training.

Dr Michael Biron of the university commented: "The worker who is given this sort of support is more likely to overcome the somatic stress and continue to work productively, leaving recovery for the normal after-work hours when we recharge our batteries."

Those who are not offered this level of support are more likely to take an extended leave of absence to recover from the pressurised environment, although many will stay at their job for fear of their position.

Dr Biron noted that supported employees tend to take less time off sick because they feel more inclined to reciprocate the kindness shown to them by their boss, and thus keep their productiveness and work effort high.

Meanwhile, News Olio has advised workers to clear their desk of clutter in order to reduce their stress levels.

The news source claimed taking time out to de-clutter the work space will be rewarding when you are able to find an important file or working pen later on.

"Junk didn't pile up overnight and it will take time to clear it out. This will probably be an ongoing project," it stated.

Employees who feel pressurised by their heavy workload must also learn to say no, said the blog. "Time is precious and not replaceable. It is humanly impossible for any of us to do everything requested of us."