Preventing and Coping with Job Stress

Preventing and Coping with Job Stress

Most of us understand what it is now and are able to recognize it in our own lives, if it exists. This week we will explain ways to prevent and cope with Job Stress.

Steps Toward Prevention:

Talk about Stress. Regular meetings can help to defuse stressful situations and address underlying problems. Managers and staff can learn to identify possible stressors before they emerge rather than waiting for the crisis to happen.

The sorts of issues causing stress can be easily added to the agenda of most meetings and can cover issues like communication, health and safety issues, and flexible working patterns. Managers and supervisors should remember to simply talk to employees. In many workplaces the increasing use of emails has resulted in a reduction in the level of face-to-face communication. Home-workers can feel particularly isolated unless they are in regular contact with their managers.

Be supportive. Individuals are more willing to admit that they are suffering from stress if they can expect to be dealt with sympathetically. In some cases good counseling may be all that is needed. Managers and supervisors should be trained to help individuals cope with stress and to recognize when expert help is needed.

Larger organizations can also help by providing health information and education; keep fit and relaxation classes and access to stress counseling. Smaller organizations may find it easier to direct employees to the appropriate facilities in the area.

Get informed. People often feel stress because they feel left out of the loop. Being supportive to staff can be as much about providing information as counseling.

Ways to Cope with Stress in the Workplace

1. Take a few deep breaths, allowing your rib cage and belly to expand as you inhale. Exhale slowly.

2. Seek a change in venue. Getting away from your work station, even for a walk to the water cooler, can help you collect your thoughts and refocus on the task at hand.

3. Laugh! Read one of your favorite jokes or simply laugh aloud.

4. Play with a stress-relieving toy or game like a mini-basketball hoop, dart board, foam stress ball or punching bag.

5. Close your eyes and listen to soothing music.

6. Visualize yourself relaxing at your favorite vacation spot or completing the big presentation with ease.

Other ways to cope with stress on an individual basis would be to participate in activities that you enjoy. Go on a bike ride, rock climb, work out at the gym, or get a massage. Take a walk with your family or go to a movie. Unfortunately I like to bake and it relieves my stress but doesn't help my physique!