What causes work-related stress?
Many situations can lead to work-related stress.
Some examples are:
* A tense working relationship with colleagues
* A manager or supervisor that is unsupportive or unapproachable
* When work intrudes on your private, social or family life
* Over-worked – being expected to do the work of two people
* Excessive pressure and unrealistic deadlines
* Lack of training for a specific task
* Lack of control over the way the work is done
* Poor working conditions
* Feeling unappreciated
* Job insecurity and the threat of unemployment
If we look more closely at the examples of excessive pressure and being over-worked we see that the feeling of impossible pressure leads to an employee often struggling to cope. In this situation the employee can feel overwhelmed and no matter how hard they work, the work just piles up.
By trying to work harder they end up missing meal breaks, coming in early and leaving late, and fail to take time to themselves to organise their thoughts and relax.
All this excessive pressure they are piling upon themselves is detrimental to keeping a clear mind and healthy thought process and the person ends up making more mistakes and causes themselves more work.
This causes additional stress and the whole situation becomes increasingly worse. Without adequate relaxation and learning to distance yourself from work pressures, you can easily fall foul of work-related stress.
If you think you are suffering from work-related stress:
* Try talking to someone you trust about the things that are upsetting you
* Find out if your workplace offers counselling or support – if not, speak to your doctor
* Stick to your contracted Work hours.
Make sure you take all the breaks and holidays you’re entitled to.
* If you’re feeling stressed, book a day off
* Allow yourself suitable travel time to work, rushing will leave you stressed before you even start work
* Exercise and healthy eating are proven to reduce the chances of stress
If your work-related stress is the result of bullying or harassment then speak to your line manager. If you are unable to do this then look for information on your employers policies for dealing with work-based issues like these. You should be able to find information on your company website or notice boards in staff areas.
Don’t feel that there is no help out there for you. Many people suffer from work-related stress and the sooner you realise that you are not over-reacting or being a poor-coper, the sooner you will seek advice and assistance to help you get back on track and stress-free.
