Managing Stress in the Workplace

During National Safety Month, a different safety topic will be highlighted each week of June. This week, managing workplace impairment, specifically workplace stress is highlighted.

Workplace impairment can be caused by several factors. In addition to substance abuse, employee fatigue and stress are key contributors to workplace impairment.

For most people, work can be both challenging and demanding. Meeting challenges can promote growth and increase resiliency for employees and organizations. However, demands and challenges may also result in high stress, which can be costly.

Workplace Stress

Nearly 80% of Americans consider their jobs stressful. While it may not be possible to eliminate job stress altogether, you can learn to manage it effectively.

Common job stressors include a heavy workload, intense pressure to perform at high levels, job insecurity, long work hours, excessive travel, office politics and conflicts with co-workers. While dealing with stress is a normal part of everyday life, here are some early warning signs that signify red flags, alerting you to stress on the job:

Insomnia
Anxiety or depression
Low morale
Short temper
Headache
Stomach or back problems

Managing Job Stress

The good news is that it is possible to manage job stress by becoming aware of what increases or decreases your stress levels. Here are six methods to help manage stress at work:

Plan and prioritize: Do not panic, make a list to prioritize your work, set realistic deadlines, do not rush into the first idea you have and always have an alternative plan.
Focus on what you can control: You know what your job tasks are. Break the larger tasks into smaller, more doable steps.
Slow down: Think things through before you act and begin with a result in mind.
Limit interruptions: Use your voicemail to your advantage and only take calls that are a priority when you are on a tight deadline. Set aside designated times throughout the day to respond to emails and phone calls.
Use all of your resources: If things do not go exactly as planned, do not solely rely on yourself. Ask for help when you need it.
Take a break: To release stress, make time to take a short break. Taking a walk or discussing your work situation with another person may help you gain a fresh perspective.

When to Consult a Professional

If the stress in your life becomes more than you can bear or manage with these simple techniques, consider seeking professional assistance. A knowledgeable professional will be able to work with you to devise time management skills and stress-reducing techniques.

For more tips about managing stress in the workplace, contact INSURICA today.