Common causes of stress in the work place;

• Fear of being laid off
• More overtime due to staff cutbacks
• Pressure to perform to meet rising expectations but with no increase in job satisfaction
• Pressure to work at optimum levels—all the time!

Signs and symptoms of job and workplace stress;

• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed
• Apathy, loss of interest in work
• Problems sleeping
• Fatigue
• Trouble concentrating
• Muscle tension or headaches
• Stomach problems
• Social withdrawal
• Loss of sex drive
• Using alcohol or drugs to cope

What can you do?

• Take a deep breath

Inhale for five seconds, hold and exhale in equal counts through the nose. It’ll be like your own private yoga sessions for a few minutes.

• Eliminate distraction

Turn off emails, pop your phone on do not disturb and close your door. Although, it may seem uncooperative at the time, if it benefits your health in the long run, it’ll be worth while.

• Eat and sleep

Eating badly stresses your system. It is vital to have a well balanced diet and as much sleep as possible to reduce overall stress and ensure your day is productive and calm.

• Learn how to relax

Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises and mindfulness can help melt away stress. Do this at home or on your lunch break.

• Talk and support

Find somebody that you can confide in, whether it’s a colleague, friend or family member and ensure you talk to them on a regular basis. If you need further help, please research or ask for information on support groups.