Stress at work has serious health effects ranging from the relatively harmless - light muscle strain and headache - to the more severe, heart attack and other metabolic syndrome. Because stress at workplace is so widespread, locating a low-stress occupation can be almost impossible or difficult for some people. Stressful situations at work can be as a result of ill feelings from personal relationships, or as a result of poor work performance. However, stress at workplace can also be caused by a combination of anything from poor ergonomics in the workplace, to a hostility towards co-workers that is more than usual.
The symptoms of stress can also include a reduced tolerance to physical or mental pain, decreased production sense, increased anxiety, an increase in anger, an increased tendency to take risks, and decreased overall productivity. These are just some of the stressors that workers may come across in their jobs. Other factors that have been associated with increased health problems in workers include substance abuse, smoking, obesity, and lack of relaxation. There are specific warning signs of job stress that can indicate the need for outside help.
One of the primary ways of preventing stress and its accompanying conditions in the workforce is to first understand the warning signs. Among the most important of these signs is that workers are increasingly acquiring health disorders such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. High levels of physical and mental fatigue are also signs of job stress. All of these conditions need to be managed through a comprehensive program of action, which should include rest, relaxation techniques, and stress management training.
Of course, there are many different ways in which an employee assistance program can be administered. In most cases, it is the employer who provides the resources that are necessary to ensure that employees receive proper stress management support. Sometimes, this may mean simply having an employee assistance program in place at the company or within an existing team (such as in an office). However, other companies may provide this kind of assistance as part of an employee assistance program that is offered to all employees, regardless of whether they work in the company or not.
Ensuring that employees receive appropriate support in the form of paid sick leave, a secure working environment, adequate break time, adequate lunch and break times, affordable, accessible travel and other programs are one way in which employers can help to prevent high levels of job stress. This of course extends beyond the actual job itself. Making sure that the various aspects of the worker's everyday life are supportive of physical health and wellness is a key component of dealing with stress at work. Most people realize that it is important to eat properly, get enough sleep, and engage in regular cardiovascular exercise to remain physically and emotionally healthy. When those aspects of daily life are supportive of physical health and wellness - and they are - workers will be less likely to experience a great deal of stress in their day-to-day activities.
Those who are experiencing job stress may also be distracted by the various aspects of their jobs. In order to effectively reduce the effects of stress and to prevent long-term effects that can have negative psychological and physiological effects, workers need to be able to fully focus on their jobs. A good portion of the American workforce is required to be extremely busy. Therefore, effective workplace communication - both verbally and non-verbally - is essential for ensuring that workers remain adequately engaged and mentally alert. Having supportive supervisors and colleagues who are available to talk to workers when needed is another important component of effective workplace communication.
Those who are experiencing significant job stress may also find themselves feeling less confident and happy about their overall performance. Stress can lead to a variety of negative behaviors such as overeating, poor work performance and even mental health issues. Those who feel that they are under constant internal scrutiny from co-workers should take note of any emotional or physical harassment they might be experiencing. In addition, it is important for employees to always remember their legal rights and filing complaints if necessary. Employees should also know their rights against discrimination and other unwarranted actions of their employer.
Dealing with stress at work can be extremely difficult. However, it is entirely possible to find ways to reduce the effects of stress while still working. Making sure your working conditions are fair and productive and maintaining a healthy and mutually enjoyable relationship with your co-workers are important steps towards reducing stress. Taking action is an important step toward reducing the negative effects of stress and keeping your job. With a little help and support, you can keep your stress levels down so you can do your job without having to worry about the stress of your coworkers.