Workplace Stress and How to Overcome It

Occupational Stress 

Occupational stress is psychological stress related to one’s job. Occupational stress refers to a chronic condition. Occupational stress can be managed by understanding what the stressful conditions at work are and taking steps to remediate those conditions. 

Stress is something that happens to all of us when we feel under pressure. In small doses, it can be beneficial and even motivating, helping you to stay focused, energetic and able to meet new challenges. 

However, when it becomes overwhelming, stress can have a hugely detrimental impact on both mental and physical wellbeing as well as job satisfaction. With over 11 million working days lost each year to workplace stress, it’s clear that this is a topic worth discussing in more detail. 

Workplace Stress Symptoms 

A change in the way someone acts can be a sign of stress, for example, they may: 

• take more time off 
• arrive for work later 
• be more twitchy or nervous 

A change in the way someone thinks or feels can also be a sign of stress, for example: 

• mood swings 
• being withdrawn 
• loss of motivation, commitment and confidence 
• increased emotional reactions – being more tearful, sensitive or aggressive 

If stress on the job is interfering with your work performance, health, or personal life, it is time to take action. There are plenty of things you can do to reduce your overall stress levels and regain a sense of control at work. 

How To Tackle Workplace Stress 

Seek Support from others 

Having a solid support system at work can help buffer you from the negative effects of job stress. Just remember to listen to them and offer support when they are in need as well.

Organise yourself 

The best way to avoid work overload is to prepare well in advance of the deadline. Work out exactly what needs to be done and make daily to-do lists, accounting for possible setbacks along the way. 

Take a break 

Don’t burn yourself out at work and power through for 10 hours without stopping. Try to get up from your desk every couple of hours and go for a stroll, ideally outside, allowing your body and mind to recuperate. And once you finish work, leave it there. Avoid checking your emails or answering work calls after hours. 

Develop a healthy routine 

No matter how busy you are at work, you cannot neglect your health and well-being. Aim to exercise for 30 minutes every day. Even if it is just a quick walk around the block, anything that gets your body moving will release endorphins and make you feel more positive. 

Rest 

Lack of sleep interferes with your daytime productivity, creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to focus. The better rested you are, the better equipped you will be to tackle your job responsibilities and cope with workplace stress. 

Stress affects people differently – what stresses one person may not affect another. Factors like skills and experience, age or disability may all affect whether an employee can cope. 

Further support tackling stress at work 

If you require any further support on workplace stress and how to overcome it, please feel free to get in touch with us today. We are happy to discuss this topic with you and provide a personalised plan to help you overcome workplace stress.