What can you do when work stress feels overwhelming and uncontrollable? There are many steps you can take to eliminate workplace stress and provide yourself with an overall improvement in mental health.
Recognize the Signs
The first step in combating stress is to recognize the signs. Stress can cause trouble focusing, anxiety, headaches, anger, and apathy. It can also lead to tension in your muscles, irritation of the skin, digestive issues, fatigue, and a lower sex drive.
At work, stress often causes lower quality and productivity, poor judgment, more sick leave, and changes in your work patterns. If you have been noticing these signs, it is highly likely that workplace stress is getting to you. Next, you can work to resolve the problem.
Combat the Problem Directly
The best way to tackle any problem is to face it head on. If you find that one specific thing is causing you significant workplace stress, it is time to change the pattern.
If you are overworked, you should always leave work on time, try not to take your work home, and consider a vacation.
For those who are in a slump because they do not like their career, it is probably time to plan a change. If you are concerned about frequent layoffs at your company, be prepared with a back up plan and ensure that your performance is top quality.
For conflicts with your supervisor, boss, or peers, try open communication to solve the issues.