Managing Occupational StressNot all employees who appear healthy are not stressed. There are a lot of factors that can cause it, and there are a lot of ways on how it manifests. However, as long as you're in a workplace and you have a job, you're very much vulnerable to getting it. Whether you're already burned out or you're on your way of developing stress, it's high time that you understand the causes and symptoms of the problem. This way, you'll be able to practice the most effective ways of managing occupational stress. Causes of Occupational Stress There are a lot of reasons why a person can experience job stress: 1. You feel the pressure of your work. Before you go any further, it's important that you know how to distinguish between a challenge and a job stress. The former should motivate you, while the other drains you of your energy. When you feel the latter, you know that you're already showing signs of occupational stress. 2. You are in conflict with your colleagues. There are times when it's not the work but your colleagues that may make you anxious or worried. It could be the lack of communication or misinterpretation of information. There may also be some of them who are out there to pull you down and eventually end your career. 3. You're under too much harassment or injury. If you feel like your safety is already compromised, then your anxiety level will definitely rise to the highest level. If you're a victim of sexual provocations, discrimination for whatever reason, or injured through an accident in the workplace, then it would not be too long before you start showing signs of job stress. Symptoms and Effects of Stress Occupational stress can affect all aspects of your life, such as physical, emotional, spiritual, and social. The early signs would normally affect your physical attributes. You may suddenly lose your short-term memory. You may also suffer from headaches, insomnia, nausea, chest pain, or even muscle tension. Since you cannot take care of yourself properly, expect your immune system to go weak, and it becomes a lot easier for you to catch different kinds of illnesses. Cognitively, you may lose your short-term memory or suffer from poor concentration and judgment. You will also feel more tension, anxiety, and worry. Some even suffer from depression and will become indecisive. Of course, job stress can cause imbalance in your emotions. Most of the burned-out employees are always moody, agitated, irritated, annoyed, and always tired or restless. How to Reduce Stress The very first thing to do in order to start managing occupational stress is to determine the cause and eliminate or control it as much as possible. A little diversion from the pressure can go a long way. Perhaps you can hit the gym, play a sport, or go out with friends and family. Better yet, if the pressure is all too high, then it could be a good idea to look for a less stressful work. |