(November 30, 2009)--A survey of large companies shows that stressed-out workers are calling in sick more and seeking more help from employee assistance programs.

Benefits consultant Watson Wyatt said 22 percent of companies responding to an e-mail survey reported increases in unplanned absences and nearly half reported more use of employee assistance programs, which typically offer counseling or stress management help.

Workers also are using their health benefits more.

Watson Wyatt said it’s typical in a tough economy, when employees worried about layoffs try to use benefits while they still have them.

Watson Wyatt Worldwide Inc. conducted the survey with the National Business Group on Health.