Stay On Top Of Workplace Stress

Experiencing too much workplace stress can impact you on both a professional and personal level. Workplace stress affects everybody and left unmanaged can disrupt personal relationships, mental health and work/life balance.

Read on to find out about workplace stress and how best to manage it. 

WHAT CAUSES WORK-RELATED STRESS?

When you feel there is an imbalance between what is expected of you and what you can reasonably achieve, the pressure this causes will lead to increased stress levels. Long hours, competing deadlines, heavy workloads and workplace tensions can all contribute to feelings of workplace stress.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM SUFFERING FROM WORKPLACE STRESS?

Whilst symptoms can vary from person to person, here are some common signs you are experiencing stress in the workplace:

• not being able to complete allocated tasks in given timeframes
• feelings of overwhelm
• arriving late to work on a regular basis
• frequent sick leave or 'mental health days' because you cannot face the thought of work
• increased tiredness
• feeling irritable and quick to anger.
• feeling tense or on edge at work
• difficulty concentrating/ easily distracted
• a lack of desire to participate in job related activities (meetings, projects, social occasions)
• withdrawing from your usual social activities and loved ones
• symptoms of panic attacks

OK. SO I'M EXPERIENCING WORKPLACE STRESS. NOW WHAT?

Workplace stress is manageable if you have the knowledge and tools. Here are some ways that may help you:

• be aware of your stress levels and take action early when signs appear
• find a trusted person you can talk to (this can be someone in your personal or professional circle)
• make sure you are using your allocated breaks -eating lunch at your desk while you work does not count. Get outside in the fresh air. Take a walk if you can.
• take leave regularly throughout the year 
• discuss your concerns with your boss/direct line manager and work together to make a plan on how to best manage your situation
• make time for things that you enjoy and bring you calm
• find a relaxation technique that works for you. Use it and use it often (click here for some suggestions)
• seek professional help from your doctor or a mental health professional

So there you have it. A quick intro into workplace stress and some ways to manage it. If you found this helpful or have anymore tips and tricks, let me know!

 Until next time,

Celeste x