Even if you have a job you love, stress can be a problem. Stress in the workplace is common, but people may not understand how to recognize it or address it. It can have damaging effects when left unaddressed. It may lead to feeling burned out while others feel unappreciated by their employer. Knowing how to manage workplace stress is crucial to your mental and physical health. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering your options for handling stress in the workplace.
Recognizing Work Stress
One of the most critical aspects of workplace stress is recognizing it and understanding when it becomes too much. Some form of stress is good because it maintains natural energy while helping you to stay focused. But in some cases, a person may experience a range of emotions that escalate when under pressure. When it becomes more challenging to get tasks done, and you feel unable to cope, you may be at your stress limit.
It also helps to understand the common causes behind workplace stress. Some fear losing their job, being laid off, or being pressured to meet high expectations without being happy about their work. People get stressed when they feel like they are not in control of their work. Stress is more of a concern when it affects your job performance, such as being expected to work more hours due to budget or staff cuts.
Warning Signs and How to Address Them
A few things to look out for when feeling stressed or burned out at work include feeling tired, anxious, social withdrawal, and muscle tension, including headaches. People may lose interest in their work, feel depressed, have trouble concentrating, and even consider using drugs or alcohol to help them cope.
There are many ways to manage workplace stress. It is important to know who you can reach out to when you need to talk. Talking to someone you trust, such as a family member, friend, or coworker, may help relieve pressure and bring calmness to the moment. You can also work with a counselor or therapist with experience handling workplace stress. Online options like BetterHelp make it easy for people to get help discreetly from their computer or mobile device whenever they are ready to talk.
Practice self-care methods, including regular exercise, making smart food choices and cutting back or avoiding alcohol. Get a full night’s sleep to help your body recharge. Calm down before bedtime with a nighttime routine. Look for ways to prioritize and organize your tasks at work. It will encourage balanced use of time and energy during your workday to keep stress levels low. Remember to take breaks, don’t take on too much at once, and have boundaries to keep from feeling pressured.
Focus on Regaining Control of Your Work
Talk to your manager about your stress. Suggest changes to your tasks that make things easier while benefiting your employer. Talk about your job and the responsibilities expected for your position. Maybe your employer could suggest improvements to make your job less stressful. Consider trying new tasks or responsibilities to change up your work and make things more interesting. When you feel highly stress, ask for time off to recharge.
Find Purpose and Meaning in Your Work
Do you feel like what you do at work has meaning? Some find it helpful to seek joy and satisfaction in what they do. It helps keep stress levels low while being rewarding to your mental and physical health. If you are unhappy at work, it may take a serious toll on your well-being. Regain purpose by looking at your work from another perspective.
Author
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
