Low morale is a huge problem in the Canadian workplace, says a recent survey conducted by Rubin Thomlinson, an employment law firm based in Toronto. Fifty-six percent of companies surveyed said they had laid off staff in the last twelve months and that most of these layoffs included ten percent of their staff. The recession has taken its toll on these companies, who report being distressed.

As layoffs increase, so has the workload, which adds to the workplace stress. The survey predicts that if the recession continues there will be an increase in employee burnout, workplace harassment, and errors on the job. They say that better and more frequent communication is crucial to keep employees upbeat at this time.

Eighteen percent of the companies surveyed predict fewer layoffs later this year and into 2010.