Job Stress

Job stress is a frequent topic today in all work environments. Constant changes in work place technology, long commutes, and short deadlines for completing complex job tasks are just some of the reasons contributing to job stress. Job stress may not be immediately obvious but it is a slow process that erodes enthusiasm for the job as well as physical and mental health. The statistics for stress in the work place in the US is extremely high and getting higher. Nowadays with the economy the way it is, job stress is even higher, causing fatigue, depression, and feelings of insecurity.

Job stress is a situation when pressure builds up in the brain during involvement in the job. Any job that gives strain creates unfavorable environment that affect brain and individuality is a situation of uneasiness and depressing. Individuality suffers from emotional injury and brain suffers from exhaustion during task. However, in both cases brain and body come in pressure due to their functional systems.

The most stressful jobs are those that provide few opportunities for making decisions or changes. Think of the conveyor belt that runs faster and faster while the worker tries harder and harder to keep up. Studies show, however, that stress more often comes from how we respond to stressful events than from the events themselves. Some people feel less stressed because they see themselves as able to cope. People who view themselves as in control generally feel less stress.

Signs of Job Stress:

» Taking more time off
» Working less efficiently
» Losing productivity
» Feeling bored
» Becoming depressed
» Having a negative attitude

The ultimate cure for job stress would be to have a job that doesn't cause stress, is simple and easy to live with. But for most people this is simply not an option. Instead, people with high stress positions in the work force need to create a divide between themselves and stress, and create a personal atmosphere at work that supports the working of this divide.

Stress reducers work when they are consistently utilized. The reason you don't notice such a huge difference when your first start is because the level of stress is still so high it is hard to recognize the effects the reducers are having. The key is to be consistent in your approach to stress relief. Choose your preferred form of stress reducers, preferably ones that suit your personality and schedule, and create a daily routine. Adhere to this routine just as you do your exercise routine. Consider tacking on a stress reducing activity at the end of your exercise regime to help you save time.

Some tips for reducing job stress:

1. Prioritize your work. Write a "to do" list to keep track of your priorities.
2. Ask for help when you need it. If you have too much work, let your boss know what you can realistically achieve.
3. Don't take work home. You need time to re-energize.
4. Take short breaks at work. When you feel anxious or stressed, take five minutes to relax. Perform a deep breathing exercise or take a short walk.
5. Clear clutter from your desk. Put projects away until you need them.
6. Take time to reward yourself for a job well done. Remind yourself that you do good work.
7. Get enough rest and exercise.

Recognizing job stress is the first step in actually handling it. Fatigue is also a huge factor in handling it, on little sleep; every small problem becomes a huge one. When it comes to handling it, the best thing to do is attack the problem head on. First, if you're worrying about a layoff, do everything you can to make yourself feel secure. Try to ensure you have a safety net. Learn how to better manage your time at work so there's no time spent stressing over projects left unfinished. Another way is to plan regular breaks from work and create a balanced schedule so you know what to expect every day. Another great idea is to break you of self-defeating behaviors. If you are a perfectionist, try to relax a little bit and not worry so much about every little thing. If you're one of those people who come in late all the time or have other bad habits, a big step in handling job stress is to eliminate that as well.