Advisors are (still) stressed

HOW STRESS VARIES

Not all stress is bad stress

In 2018, FlexShares worked closely with Ari Levy, MD and MBA a well-respected physician in Chicago that treats many financial professionals. His approach is holistic, and doctors in his practice – SHIFT – come together with life coaches, fitness trainers, nutritionists and recovery specialists to provide customized care. Dr. Levy works with his clients to understand and treat the factors causing stress – not just the symptoms. He reminded us, however, that not all stress is bad stress.

Stress and the gender effect

We examined the stress levels of men and women nationwide, regardless of profession. Then we compared the data to stress levels reported by advisors in our survey based on their gender. In the U.S., the average national stress level for men was 37.8%. But for male advisors, the situation was much worse, registering at 47.1%. Even more concerning is that the national stress level for women was 45.6%, which was markedly higher than their male counterparts, but still lower than male advisors. However, reported stress levels for female advisors, at 53.7%, were the highest of all groups.

Stress Levels by Gender

Stress and the impact of family status

This year for the first time, we asked about stress levels based on dependents of advisors – both children and adults. Caring for others had an impact on both occupational satisfaction and every measure of stress. Interestingly, there was no significant difference between genders.

Dependents

Advisors with children under 21 reported lower occupational satisfaction and higher levels of stress. Adult and senior dependents did not trigger higher stress levels or reduce overall satisfaction.