Blog 4

How to handle stress at work

 Article link: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-to-handle-stress-at-work-2019041716436

Our bodies and brains go into fight-or-flight mode when we are under stress at work, which results in higher heart rate, fast breathing, and muscle tension. This reaction, which has evolved throughout our evolutionary history to deal with threats, can supply the energy needed to fulfil pressing work obligations, even if it means working through the night. On the other hand, constant pressure can result in stress when daily work experiences are stressful. The symptoms of exhaustion include extreme tiredness, negativity, and a lack of confidence in oneself. This illness is caused by a number of work-related stressors, including an excessive workload, a lack of autonomy, low pay, struggled relationships with coworkers, unfair treatment, and a mismatch between personal values and expectations at work. Organizations as well as mental and physical health are significantly impacted by continuous job stress. Studies have shown a connection between burnout and anxiety and depression, which increases the likelihood of serious mental health problems. People are more likely to suffer from illness when they experience high levels of stress because it can upset body systems. Repeated stress can cause high levels of cortisol, which may reduce immunity and increase the risk of conditions such as autoimmune disorders, heart attacks, and memory loss. Healthy habits like exercise, a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep can all be negatively impacted by long-term tension. Burnout has negative effects on organizations that include increased absences, lower productivity, and higher employee turnover. People can benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to manage stress related to their work. These consist of mindfulness, problem-solving techniques, relaxation techniques, and reconsidering unfavorable thoughts. The physiological effects of the fight-or-flight response are mitigated by relaxation techniques, whereas problem-solving involves identifying issues, formulating solutions, creating action plans, and testing solutions. It has been demonstrated that practicing mindfulness, which involves paying attention to the present moment with acceptance and curiosity, can effectively lessen the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

References: LeBlanc, N. J., MA. (2019). How to handle stress at work. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-to-handle-stress-at-work-2019041716436