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Stress in the Workplace: Causes and Coping Strategies

By February 17, 2023Blogs, Employee Assistance ProgramViews: 592

 

Stress is a natural response to challenging situations and is a common phenomenon in the modern-day workplace. From excessive workload to lack of recognition and everything in between, the workplace can often be a breeding ground for stress. To better understand and tackle this issue, let’s delve into the various causes of stress in the workplace.

Causes of Stress in the Workplace

1. High demand and low control

The modern-day work environment is fast-paced, and employees are often expected to take on multiple responsibilities and complete tasks within tight deadlines. When combined with a lack of control over the situation, it can result in employees feeling overwhelmed and stressed. This can be particularly challenging for those who are naturally driven to excel and are not able to manage the pressure effectively.

2. Lack of appreciation and acknowledgment:

Feeling undervalued and unappreciated is a significant source of stress for employees. When employees do not receive recognition for their efforts or positive feedback from superiors, it can lead to a lack of motivation and a feeling of disconnection from the workplace. This can be especially disheartening for employees who take pride in their work and view their job as an extension of their identity.

3. Lack of trust and cooperation:

Trust and cooperation are critical elements of a positive work environment. When coworkers are not trustworthy or cannot rely on one another, productivity can be hindered, and stress levels can increase. This can result in increased tension, reduced motivation, and a decrease in overall job satisfaction.

4. Job security:

Job security is a major concern for many employees, especially in today’s uncertain economic climate. The fear of being laid off or losing one’s job can cause significant stress, leading to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. This can be especially challenging for employees who have mortgages, families, and other financial responsibilities to meet.

5. Career growth:

The desire to grow and advance in one’s career is a natural human aspiration. However, when employees feel stagnant in their careers, lacking opportunities for growth and advancement, it can lead to feelings of frustration and stress. This can result in reduced motivation, decreased job satisfaction, and an increased risk of burnout.

6. Gender Stereotypes in the Workplace
Gender stereotypes in the workplace can cause stress by imposing rigid expectations on individuals, leading to a lack of recognition, promotion, and support, as well as pressure to conform to societal norms. Women may face dismissal or underestimation, while men may feel the need to conform to traditional masculinity, resulting in increased stress levels.

Ways to Deal with Stress

Dealing with stress in the workplace can be a challenging but crucial task for maintaining one’s mental and physical well-being. Here are some effective strategies for reducing stress at work:

1. Time management:

One of the most significant contributors to stress in the workplace is feeling overwhelmed by tasks. To combat this, prioritizing one’s day and starting early can help reduce stress and increase productivity. Breaking down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks and avoiding procrastination can also help alleviate stress.

2. Talk to colleagues or friends:

Talking to coworkers or friends about stress can help relieve tension and provide a supportive environment. Sharing experiences and discussing stress-inducing situations can help individuals understand they are not alone in their struggles and can lead to the creation of a stress-support network.

3. Avoid, alter, or accept the stressor:

Depending on the situation, one may choose to avoid, alter, or accept the stressor. Avoiding stressors can be useful when it’s possible to remove oneself from a situation. Altering the stressor can help by making changes to the situation, such as negotiating deadlines or delegating responsibilities. Acceptance can help drive emotions instead of letting them control one.

4. Ask for help:

Reaching out to coworkers, friends, or a professional for help can provide support and a new perspective on the situation. This can be especially beneficial when dealing with significant life events, such as the death of a loved one or financial difficulties, which can lead to increased stress levels. Seeking support from a therapist, counselor, or life coach can also provide individuals with practical coping strategies for managing stress.

What can the Management Do to Help Employees Cope with Stress?

The role of management in reducing and addressing employees’ stress is crucial. Here are some ways the HR, team leaders or the management can know if an employee is stressed out:

  • A good rapport between employees and management is key in identifying signs of stress.
  • Employee displays unapproachable behavior,
  • Sudden bursts of anger,
  • Physical symptoms like headaches and stomach aches,
  • Frequent absenteeism, and sometimes even working long hours.

Management can help employees deal with stress by:

  • Assigning jobs and responsibilities that are challenging but not overwhelming,
  • Understanding the employee’s work environment, providing training and development opportunities,
  • Recognizing and appreciating employees,
  • Defining clear job roles,
  • Creating a positive work atmosphere, and being empathetic to personal challenges.

By taking these steps, the management can help reduce stress and increase job satisfaction, leading to improved productivity and employee retention.

Building a Wholesome and a Stress-free Work Place

Creating a safe space for employees to work, express their ideas and execute their everyday tasks is essential to build a stress-free workplace. Using the mentioned ways to deal with stress and straying away from stereotypes in the workplace can surely help employees feel relaxed and stay on top of their productivity despite challenging responsibilities.

If you are an organization looking to implement EAP support, write to us at connect@cecureus.com. Visit our portal to book an appointment if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one. For more blogs, vlogs, workshop announcements, and event updates, visit our official website , www.cecureus.com.

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