Work Stress
Unresolved job stress can lead to poor health and increase the risk of tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Job conditions that can lead to stress include excessive workloads, conflicting expectations, infrequent breaks, hectic pace, management style, poor social environment, job insecurity, and dangerous working conditions, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
Common warning signs of job stress include:
- Headaches
- Absenteeism
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating
- Short temper
- Upset stomach
- Depression
- Job dissatisfaction
- Low morale
- Apathy
- Cynicism.
Wipe out work stress by:
- Exercising. It’s great for all parts of you, including your mind.
- Managing your time. Tell your boss if your workload is unmanageable, and discuss ways to set priorities.
- Getting more sleep. You need 7–9 hours of shuteye nightly.
- Striking a balance. Schedule time for fun, friends, and family.
- Taking breaks. Your anxiety level can heighten after consecutive hours of nonstop effort; make time to stretch, take deep breaths, and walk.
- Remaining calm. Caffeine and nicotine will make you jittery, no matter the workload; when stressors start to swirl, stay relaxed by breathing deeply and slowly.
