A variety of factors contribute to employees feeling stressed on the job. A common problem arises when an individual feels in over their head. When the demands of the job require more time, energy, or responsibility than the individual is able to handle, they may experience a chronic sense of helplessness. Another common source of job-related stress is interpersonal conflicts between individuals and their co-workers or bosses. Tensions may increase when job duties and expectations dissolve into confrontation and confusion. Other major stressors faced on the job include uncertainty around job security, decreased health and retirement benefits, and constant changes and reorganizations within the job description.
As a result of ongoing workplace stress the health and wellness of millions of Americans is at risk everyday, impacting their physical, psychological, and behavioral well-being.
Physical symptoms of work-related stress may include tense muscles, headaches, gastrointestinal distress, fatigue, skin problems, sleep issues, and others.
Psychological signs work stress may be getting to you could include a sense of hopelessness and powerlessness, feeling work is not a safe place, marked irritability, constant worry, being overwhelmed, unable to concentrate or make decisions, low self-esteem, and more.
Behavioral indicators of job stress may include avoiding work altogether, withdrawing socially and being less involved and cooperative, changes in eating habits, sleep routines, and consumption of stimulants and substances, aggression, mood swings, diminished job performance, among others.
If you are one of the majority of Americans dealing with the debilitating symptoms of stress caused by work, check out the next blog in this series to learn how to cope with work-related stress and make changes to improve your life and your career.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment with a therapist to get a handle on your stress now, contact LiveFree counseling at 720.465.6180.
