Stress in Workplace

Work-related stress is 'the response people may have when presented with work demands and pressures that are not matched to their knowledge and abilities and which challenge their ability to cope.

Stress is not an injury or disease, however the experience of stress can lead to the development of psychological and physical injuries.

How could we identify stress at work?

Some of the many causes of work-related stress include long hours, heavy workload, job insecurity and conflicts with co-workers or bosses. Symptoms include a drop in work performance, depression, anxiety and sleeping difficulties.

How could we prevent stress at work

Some ways to help manage work-related stress include:

- Not taking on too many stressful things at once

- Talking to somebody you trust in your personal or professional life

- Trying some new relaxation techniques, such as meditation or mindfulness

- Recognising when you need some space from work and cutting down your hours

- Taking regular holidays and making time for things you enjoy, such as family hobbies or sport

- Asking your doctor or health professional for help or tips

- Talking to your employer

- Contacting a professional organisation such as Heads Up, Black Dog Institute or SANE Australia for advice

How could employer manage stress at work

Information about work-related stress can be given to workers in a number of ways including:

- Talking directly with employees by holding team meetings, tool box talks or speaking one-on-one with them 

- Handing out company newsletters or pamphlets 

- Including information sheets in payslips

- Displaying posters around the workplace

- Through email messages or intranet announcements

- Training is available through consultants and registered training providers on topics such as managing stress or stress management strategies. While this training may assist individuals to develop their coping skills, it may not include information that is specific to the psychological risk factors that have been identified in their work environment. Therefore, your workplace may still need to conduct its own training for employees. 

Summary

Some of the many causes of work-related stress include long hours, heavy workload, job insecurity and conflicts with co-workers or bosses.

Symptoms include a drop in work performance, depression, anxiety and sleeping difficulties.

It is important for employers to recognise work-related stress as a significant health and safety issue.

A company can and should take steps to ensure that employees are not subjected to unnecessary stress.