There are many people who are stressed out and unhappy with their employment. Not only can this affect someone mentally and physically---it can affect their job and work performance as well. The signs and symptoms of stress at work can be evident every day or only in times of high pressure in the workplace. Problems at home or with personal lives can also add to the problem.
Absences
One of the first signs of work stress may be showing up late for work or calling in sick frequently. The employee may exhibit a true fear of going to work and encounter an underlying issue such as difficulty with another employee or the boss, an error in the work method or falling behind on tasks. Absence can be a way to avoid situations that will cause anxiety and may eventually lead to aggression, crying or acting out physically.
Isolation
Oftentimes, people who are stressed at work may show signs of isolation. Although they used to mingle and associate with other coworkers often, they now keep to themselves or retract from group activities. They may miss business meetings to avoid certain co-workers or management. They could use the excuse they have too much other work to do, they are completing a project or they are ill. Instead of having lunch with their co-workers, they may eat lunch alone in their car or not take a lunch break at all.
Insubordination
One sign that an employee is under a great deal of stress could be an incidence of insubordination. This may include throwing objects in haste, yelling at his boss or other associates, destroying property or making verbal threats or accusations. This is a serious matter and should be dealt with accordingly per each companies personnel policies. If an employee is written up for acting unethically, a probation period or leave of absence may be a viable solution.
Depression
Depression is a major sign of added and accumulated stress in the workplace. The symptoms of depression can be subtle or quite obvious. Heightened sensitivity to other co-workers or group meetings that result in tears, detachment or walking out of the room could be signs that the employee is facing personal and emotional issues. Some employees may be tearful, avoid other workers or get caught in dishonest situations that they use to cover up their depression such as improper work performance, stealing or vandalism.
Weight Gain or Weight Loss
Many employees who are unhappy in their work life may turn to food for comfort. Many workplaces have potlucks, catered meals or snack bars available freely for their employees so that employee can fuel up throughout the day. Some employees may turn to unhealthy foods as a source of comfort through long hours and stressful work environments. On the contrary, some may not eat at all and lose their appetite under stressful situations or while trying to meet the overwhelming demands in the workplace.
