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  • Stress in the Workplace

    Stress in the Workplace

    Work-related stress occurs when the demands of work exceed the resources we have for managing those demands.

    Most jobs will involve some level of stress, and this level will fluctuate over time as a result of various factors. Stress, in moderate and healthy quantities, can have a beneficial effect on our performance, resilience and overall functioning. However, when occupational stress becomes excessive or chronic, it can cause significant problems for an individual's psychological and physical health, including their risk of anxiety and mood-related problems. In high levels, stress can also interfere with our capacity to think clearly and make effective decisions.

    People experience stress in a variety of different ways. Signs of work-related stress can include:


    Physical

    • Presence of risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease (e.g., hypertension, overweight, heart attack, coronary heart disease)
    • Musculoskeletal disorders
    • Immune deficiency disorders
    • Gastrointestinal problems
    • Headaches
    • Fatigue or tiredness
    • Elevated heart rate
    • Psychomotor agitation (e.g., feeling fidgety or restless)
    • Sleep difficulties.

    Psychological

    • Burnout
    • Heightened emotions
    • Irritability/mood swings
    • Feelings of helplessness or worthlessness
    • Disconnection or withdrawal from colleagues and others 
    • Concentration / memory difficulties
    • Problems with decision-making.

    Behavioural

    • Taking frequent leave from work (absenteeism) 
    • Attending for work but producing a low output (presenteeism)
    • Procrastination
    • Making avoidable errors at work, or performing below the usual standard
    • Ruminating about the job outside the workplace
    • Avoiding family/social engagements
    • Having a short temper
    • Tearfulness
    • Eating too much or too little
    • Drinking more alcohol than usual or smoking more than usual 
    • Using prescription or non-prescription drugs to 'wind down' after work
    • Insufficient exercise

    Research has demonstrated that a number of psychological strategies can be effective in managing occupational stress such as cognitive strategies, improving time management, seeking support from others, practicing assertive communication and problem-solving approaches and changing lifestyle behaviours.

    If you feel that workplace stress is getting too much, our Psychologists are trained and qualified professionals skilled in helping people with a range of mental health concerns, including stress in the workplace. Our Psychologists can help you manage your stress using techniques based on the best available research.