Feeling stressed out? You aren’t alone. The Headspace Workforce State of Mind Report found 47% of employees cite work as the main source of stress. A Northwestern National Life survey found 40% of workers say their jobs were extremely stressful, while a Yale University study found that 29% reported feeling extreme stress due to jobs.
Regardless of industry, stress has unfortunately become a staple in the workplace. Thankfully, there has been a growing awareness of the issue lately, and just because it exists doesn’t mean you have to let it affect your mental health, creativity, and productivity.
Symptoms of Stress
Before you can overcome stress, it’s important to understand the red flags, signals, and symptoms to identify it in your workplace.
Stress can manifest through physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms, and according to the Department of Health in Victoria, Australia, there are tell-tale signs. Physical symptoms may include fatigue, tension, headaches, trouble sleeping, sickness, and more. Mental or psychological symptoms can include depression or anxiety, lack of creativity, discouragement, lack of focus and concentration, and other cognitive difficulties. Stress can also lead to behavioral issues, including absenteeism, aggression, lower performance and productivity, irritability, and isolation.
To prevent these symptoms or help lessen the effects of already present issues, understand signs of stress are often like a check engine light on a car. It’s a signal to remind you and your team to investigate the cause of stress.
Tips to Alleviate Stress
Here are a few tips to help alleviate stress at work:
- Take a break by going for a walk, texting a friend, or practicing breathing techniques.
- Prioritize your health with good habits, healthy diet, and sufficient sleep.
- Practice strategies for work-life balance, like setting boundaries and managing your time differently.
- Speak with a friend or family member for support.
- Contact a mental health professional. Companies may offer this as a benefit through an Employee Assistance Program, or your healthcare provider should be able to connect you with a professional. Services are also available in the U.S. through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s national helpline at (800) 662-HELP (4357). In Canada, dial 211 for assistance locating mental health resources.
While it may be impossible to completely eradicate stress in the workplace, by being more conscientious of the issue and aware of potential hazard areas, you can overcome stressful situations and allow for a more creative and productive environment.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific advice, consult your physician or other qualified health provider.
