More Malaysians are experiencing work-related stress due to added pressure as a result of the economy instability.

According to a recent survey conducted by Regus, over two-fifths of the respondents are actually losing sleep worrying about work. Another 33 percent said that are worried about losing their job and 32 percent feel less confident about the sector they work in.

Regus Regional Director (Asia Pacific) John Henderson said that the difficult economic times in the West and an unprecedented rate of growth in emerging economies have put a strain on businesses and their employees.

“Workers are expected to do more with less, and this has taken its toll to the point many are close to burn-out.

“It’s not surprising that work-related worries and the sleepless nights they cause, are taking their toll on employees’ personal lives. Proactive businesses that address stress in their workforce are likely to end up with a healthier workforce and reduced absenteeism,” he said.

The respondents also identified flexible working as critical to help ease work-related stress.

The survey gathered the opinions of more than 20,000 senior executives and business owners across 95 countries.