Oct 15

Oct 15 Stress In The Workplace

Did you know that up to 77% of people in the U.S regularly experience stress? Physical symptoms of stress include the following: fatigue, headache, upset stomach, muscle tension, change in appetite, teeth grinding, change in sex drive, and even feeling dizzy. Some of the psychological symptoms include irritability or anger, feeling nervous, lack of energy, and feeling as though you could cry. These are worrying symptoms, especially when you consider a combination of these happening in the workplace. Are these symptoms you have experienced in the past, or recently? If you said “yes” then keep reading!

Stress in the workplace is almost as common as coffee in the workplace. In fact, the two seem to go hand in hand, with job pressure being one of the leading causes of stress in the U.S. The trend seems to be rising, but there is good news. As we remove the stigma that has surrounded stress in the workplace companies are taking note of the impact that stress has on its employees. There is a cultural shift happening in the workplace, and stress and mental health are being recognized by companies. But what if it isn’t happening in your company or country yet?

What can you do about your stress levels?

There are so many ways to cope with stress in your life, but like many other aspects of wellness it is not a one size fits all solution. Trying different techniques can help you to establish a healthy rhythm of your own self-care. The journey to discovering your very own holistic prescription for stress release can be one of the most powerful things you ever do for yourself. Some examples include yoga, walks in nature, boxing classes, cooking, gardening, reading, connecting with a friend or loved one, volunteering at a local charity, anything that you find enjoyable. You just need to find your combination, and take your prescription as needed.

My daily prescription looks like this:

Sunrise walk with my dog
Tea on my porch
A productive morning at work, making a list of achievable goals for the day / week
Lunch time exercise. What my body feels like it needs, usually yoga or a HIIT class.
Make dinner from scratch, connect with my food. Maybe prepare lunch for the following day.
Evening walk with my dog
Bed

Pictured above: Katie teaching goat yoga to Zest Wellness members.

Of course, there will be times in your life when a holistic approach just isn’t feasible; and in times like these you should always seek professional help.

It is important to know that your job can help in these times as well. Find out if you have access to an EAP Program, and if you do utilize it! EAP programs can be used for immediate crises, and will often offer counselling in addition to conflict resolution and mediation services. If your company does not offer an EAP program, then be sure you are communicating with someone you trust during times of stress. Asking for more clarity on projects, or even asking to share the work load can be helpful if you are feeling overwhelmed.

The most important thing to remember is that everybody gets stressed, you are not alone. Reach out to friends and loved ones about your feelings, and try to find your own daily prescription for stress through holistic activities. Don’t compare yourself to others, as what works for you will look different than what works for them. And above all, be kind to yourself.

By: Katie Titterton