A new study shows that giving employees extra benefits does not lower their stress levels. The research looked at workers in 22 countries, from the Americas to Asia and Africa. It found that stress is higher than ever.

The report says many companies add perks like gym memberships or free lunches. These extras create a gap between what employers intend and what actually helps employees feel better. The real problems—heavy workloads, long hours, bad office culture and other dangers at work—are still ignored.

About two thirds of company leaders said health and safety problems grew last year. More than half blamed mental issues such as stress, anxiety and depression. The study warned that employers need to stop covering up problems with small gestures.

Experts say prevention should be built into every part of a business. This means leaders must show strong support, talk openly about safety and let workers speak up without fear. Only then can companies move from quick fixes to lasting health.

The U. S. safety agency also says long‑term stress hurts physical health. It can cause heart disease, high blood pressure and poor sleep. These problems make people miss work or leave jobs, which hurts the company.

The findings urge employers to look at root causes instead of just offering perks. By fixing workload, improving job design and changing culture, companies can create safer and happier workplaces.

Perks Aren’t Enough to Cut Workplace Stress

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