Managing Work Stress

According to Beyond Blue, 1 in 5 Australian employees are likely to be experiencing a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression. This can be a result of high workloads, long hours, and pressure placed on workers. Below are a number of tips that can help you to better manage work stress.

How can I manage Work Stress?

1. Be proactive

Deal with workplace stressors as they arise, rather than letting issues pile up

2. Find a mentor

Try to find a mentor or trusted peer within your workplace, someone you can meet with regularly to debrief and build skills.

3. Don’t just focus on work

Think of what you want to focus on outside of work (e.g. hobbies, relationships, study, etc.), and make sure those areas get the attention they need.

4. Work on communication skills

Learn assertive and proactive communication skills to address any issues with colleagues or managers. Many peers see this as a positive sign and will support you in doing so.

5. Take a break

Take regular and assigned breaks. Make sure you leave your desk and stretch your legs. Grab a snack or go for a quick walk.

6. Socialise

Try to involve yourself in workplace activities. Join the social club. You may find many of your peers also experience stress at work and having an outlet for this stress is important.

7. Rethink your email use

Many years ago, the World Health Organisation predicted emails would be a major contributor to workplace stress. Have a rethink about your email use, avoid emailing in situations where a face to face chat would be preferable. Don’t be reactive to emails that may contain sensitive issues, leave them a while before replying. Remember, sometimes the best response is no response.

8. Leave on time

Try to leave work on time. If it’s expected that you put in extra hours then many people find they are more productive earlier in the day. If this applies to you then consider coming into work earlier rather than staying back.

9. Understand your contract

Be sure you understand your employment contract (if you have one) in the context of fair and legal workplace practices. If you feel you are being unfairly treated then you can seek advice from external bodies such as an industry union or the Fair Work Ombudsman Helpline. In many cases knowledge is power and knowing what your rights are is very important.

10. Speak to a health professional about managing work stress

If symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression persist, speak to a health professional or your GP.

Talkingminds are a respected provider of affordable, low cost counselling, psychotherapy and psychological services based in Ultimo, inner western Sydney. We have a range of practitioners who can help you manage work stress.

Visit our website or contact us to discuss making an appointment.