Prevent Stress in the Workplace

Would you know if your employees were feeling overwhelmed and stressed out?

A report by the Wall Street Journal stated nearly one-third of employees surveyed considered quitting their jobs because of work-related stress.

Job stress can be defined as physical and emotional responses that occur when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker.

Symptoms like aching muscles, loss of appetite, restless sleep, decreased productivity, and exhaustion are all signs of being too stressed.

And not dealing with stress can lead to chronic health problems including cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders, and psychological disorders.

Stress can also negativity affect the bottom line: The American Institute of Stress estimates that U.S. corporations spend more than $300 billion annually on stress-related costs.

The good news is that you can help your employees prevent and deal with stress to avoid physical and mental problems.

Here are a few tips from the Centers for Disease Control on how you can help:

• Ensure that the workload is in line with workers’ capabilities and resources.
• Design jobs to provide meaning, stimulation, and opportunities for workers to use their skills.
• Clearly define workers’ roles and responsibilities.
• Give workers opportunities to participate in decisions and actions affecting their jobs.
• Improve communications and reduce uncertainty about career development and future employment prospects.
• Provide opportunities for social interaction among workers.
• Establish work schedules that are compatible with demands and responsibilities outside the job.
• Encourage an easy exercise program at work: A simple walking routine at lunch can help employees decrease feelings of stress.
• Encourage a healthy diet. Many employees are prone to turn to salty, sugary, and fat laden foods that are convenient from a drive thru restaurant or vending machine. Tack up posters and pass out reminders about making healthier choices.