Welcome to my Blog!: Identifying, preventing and managing stress at work

Managing stress

"Work-related stress describes the physical, mental and emotional reactions of workers who perceive that their work demands exceed their abilities and/or their resources (such as time, help/support) to do the work"

- SafeworkSA

Risk Factors for work related stress

Work demands- Exceeding the person's capacity for work will lead to stress.

Poor support- This is when employees are not supported by their supervisors, this will lead to stress. Employees need support and feedback regarding the work and issues they encounter.

Low control- This refers to how much control person has regarding the work. unnecessary levels of supervision may lead to stress.

Poor relationships- Colleagues can be important sources of support but they can also be potential sources of stress. Relationships with bosses, peers and subordinates can positively or negatively affect the way a worker feels.

Undefined roles- When employees are unclear about their roles and responsibilities, it will result in stress. Role conflicts may also lead to this.

Low recognition and reward- Appraisal and recognition can be achieved through tangible rewards or through feedback on task performance and providing opportunities for the development of skills. Employees expect recognition on the work they do. If there is lack of recognition, will lead to reducing performance and ultimately stress.

These factors result in work related stress. This will lead to psychological illnesses and Physical illnesses.

How to identify stress at work