Work Related Stress

Work-related stress can be caused by various events. For example, a person might feel under pressure if the demands of their job (such as hours or responsibilities) are greater than they can comfortably manage. Other sources of work-related stress include conflict with co-workers or bosses, constant change, and threats to job security, such as potential redundancy.

• In Australia, the total cost of workers compensation claims for stress-related conditions is estimated at over $200 million every year.
• According to the National Health and Safety Commission, work-related stress accounts for the longest stretches of absenteeism.

Symptoms include a drop in work performance, depression, anxiety and sleeping difficulties.

It is important for employers to recognise work-related stress as a significant health and safety issue. A company can and should take steps to ensure that employees are not subjected to unnecessary stress.

However, what one person may perceive as stressful, another may view as challenging. Whether or not a person experiences work-related stress depends on the job, the person’s psychological and emotional make-up, and other factors (such as personal life and general health).

Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of work-related stress can include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Feelings of being overwhelmed and unable to cope
• A drop in work performance
• An increase in sick days or absenteeism
• Sleeping difficulties, such as insomnia
• Cognitive difficulties, such as a reduced ability to concentrate or make decisions
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Heart palpitations
• Gastrointestinal upsets, such as diarrhoea or constipation
• Increased aggression.

Possible consequences

For businesses, work-related stress causes an increase in sick days and absenteeism, a higher turnover of staff and a drop in productivity. Some of the possible consequences of work-related stress for the individual include:

Increased susceptibility to workplace accidents Deterioration of personal relationships Ill-health, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease Workplace aggression and violence.

Work-related stress is a management issue

It is important for employers to recognise work-related stress as a significant health and safety issue. A company can and should take steps to ensure that employees are not subjected to unnecessary stress,

A company can and should take steps to ensure that employees are not subjected to unnecessary stress. Take time out and learn easy techniques to help with day to day stress.