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Stress at work – are you feeling the pressure?

We’ve all felt stressed at work from time to time – a heavy workload or pressing deadline can give us all a feeling of anxiety or make us feel a bit overwhelmed. But if it’s happening every day and taking over your life then you need to do something about it. Excessive stress can interfere with your productivity and performance and over time will impact on your physical and emotional health.

Here are a few warning signs to look out for if you think you might be stressed:-

      • Feeling anxious, irritable or depressed
      • Loss of interest in work or home
      • Problems sleeping & constant fatigue
      • Trouble concentrating
      • Headaches
      • Upset tummy
      • Heart palpitations when at work
      • Being socially withdrawn

 

If you notice any of the above symptoms then it’s time to take action. Here are our tips on overcoming stress at work:-

1. Talk to somebody at work. This could be a co-worker or your boss and is our most important advice. If you feel that you are being put on and have too much work, or are under qualified or out of your depth with the tasks you have been given you need to speak out. There might be a way to share out some of your workload of get you some additional support and training.

2. Review your systems and the way you work. Prioritise your tasks on a daily basis and write out a To Do list to help you manage your time accordingly. If you can, delegate responsibility to other members of the team or ask for help from colleagues.

3. Take regular breaks. Try and nip out for some fresh air at lunchtime – it’s amazing what a difference it will make to clear your head. Regular short breaks away from your desk or work station will help you relax, recharge and be more productive.

4. If you haven’t already, develop some friendships at work. Often just having somebody to listen to you can really help and take some of the weight off your shoulders…..it’s good to talk!

5. Keep active. Regular exercise is a powerful stress reliever and will help lift your mood and increase energy. This could be joining a local gym, dancing, swimming, walking, or joining a local club. Anything that raises your heart rate and try to do something every day – even if it’s just a 20-minute walk to the train station.

6. Eat well and keep hydrated. Too much sugar is thought to provoke stress so try to eat small, regular and healthy meals with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. If you get the “afternoon dip” and crave sugary foods then try healthy alternatives like fruit, yoghurt or a handful of nuts to keep the hunger at bay!

7. Avoid smoking and drink alcohol in moderation. Although they might make you feel less stressed whilst you are participating in them, they will actually work the opposite. Nicotine is a powerful stimulant and will actually lead to higher levels of anxiety!

Feeling stressed can be a really overwhelming feeling, which will be intensified if you keep it to yourself. Try to talk to somebody you trust about it – sometimes another person’s feedback and support can really help!

If you need any further support or information please get in touch with our Specialist Recruitment Team or visit the Mind website:- www.mind.org.uk/information-support

 

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