1. Signs of Job Stress
Several major workplace studies indicate that job related stress is a serious issue that affects almost all workers at one time or another. For example, Northwestern National Life's study indicates that as many as 40 percent of workers view their job as very stressful. Worker productivity diminishes as stress increases and more workers call in sick to work as an outlet for some of their stress. Work related stress claims for worker compensation have increased significantly, and employee stress is cited as one of the top reasons for job turnover.
2. Physical Effects of Stress
Stress can manifest itself physically as the body tries to find a way to manage the emotional issues the person is feeling. Increases in blood pressure and heart rate can happen almost immediately. Over time, these may become chronic conditions leading to heart problems or high blood pressure. Workers with diabetes often find that their disease is made worse by uncontrolled stress. Insomnia, nausea, abdominal cramping, migraines and other headaches are also common effects of stress. Physical issues related to stress are costly, too, accounting for some of the rising costs of medical care and insurance claims by employees.
3. Common Workplace Stressors
Job security is linked to one of the causes of stress for employees. Whether the job security issues are real or perceived, the threat of losing a job can raise stress levels and affect job performance. Employee layoffs tend to make anyone nervous, regardless of the industry. Other sources of job stress include difficulties with co-workers and management, tight deadlines and strained budgets.
4. Violence in the Workplace
Workplace violence is unfortunately an unintended side effect of significant job related stress. Work related homicides account for approximately 25 percent of all cases. Employers should be proactive in addressing issues of extreme job stress to decrease the likelihood of workplace violence. In addition, employees share responsibility for being vigilant in their surroundings. When a situation becomes too stressful to manage, a visit with management or a job change may be needed to avoid a serious confrontation.
5. Coping with Job Stress
One way to cope with job stress is to schedule time away from work. Americans are notorious for not taking vacation time as scheduled or even at all. Even a change in occupations can be a way to lower stress. Some individuals are simply not a good fit for a particular environment, yet may thrive in another. Companies that have a practice of cross-department hiring may find that an employee struggling in one department works well in another. Taking advantage of employee assistance programs may also help reduce stress. Finally, having an outside outlet such as a hobby or a good exercise program can reduce stress and have positive health benefits as well.
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