The workplace is a major source of stress for many people. Whether it’s dealing with an ever-expanding workload or trying to function without the right support, there may be many triggers for stress. However, while stress is common, sometimes it can become overwhelming and it’s at that point that stress at work is a real issue. That’s why it’s so important to find a way to cope with stress at work if this is a problem that you feel you have.
Identify the source of your stress
There could be many different reasons why you’re finding work stressful, including being in a job that simply isn’t challenging enough and in which you’re bored. Your current role may offer few opportunities to grow and develop or you may feel like there are conflicting demands and expectations with respect to your time and achievements. Low salary, poor working conditions, excessive workload and bad management are also common causes for stress at work.
Be alert to the signs of stress at work
Everyone is different but there are some common indications that you may be suffering from workplace stress, including:
- Insomnia
- Chronic anxiety
- Being unable to concentrate
- A compromised immune system
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
Many of the ways that we try to cope with stress at work can make this worse, for example comfort eating high sugar foods, drinking too much or smoking.
Coping with stress at work
If you feel like workplace stress is an issue for you there are a number of steps that you can take to help get past the problem.
- Speak up. Talking to a supervisor or manager is an important first step if you’re feeling stressed. In most organisations, it’s in the manager’s interests for employees to be productive and so they will want to help put a plan in place that enables you to do this.
- Start using relaxation techniques. From meditation exercises to yoga and taking long, calming walks, there are lots of ways to introduce more relaxation into you day and to start learning how to feel less stressed on an ongoing basis.
- Identify what your triggers are. It can be useful to keep a stress diary so that you know exactly what it is that triggers you when it comes to stress. By tracking this over a period of two weeks you should be able to see what – or who – makes you feel like it’s difficult to cope.
- Set some boundaries. Many of the problems we have with stress begin when we forget how to say “no.” Technology today means we can be contactable all the time and could – in theory – work around the clock. It’s incredibly important to set some boundaries, whether that’s turning your emails off after 7pm or not answering the phone after the end of the working day.
- Ask for help. Other people, especially close friends and family, can be incredibly useful when it comes to coping with workplace stress. From making suggestions to providing support during tough times, reaching out is often the right thing to do.
Stress at work is a common problem but there are some very effective ways to deal with it so that it doesn’t become overwhelming.
Our
Stress Management course is ideal for delegates to stay more in control of themselves as pressure increases so you can still perform well and achieve results.