StressManagement in the Workplace :StressManagement in the Workplace HP 305 October 28, 2008 Lora Traylor Jeannie Jones Megan Browning


What is Stress Management? :What is Stress Management? Stress in the workplace often results because of poor time management, weak organizational skills, and a lack of ergonomics to help reduce all of these factors. “Although stress is a necessary part of life our goal should not be to eliminate stress but to use it to our advantage.” Axmaker, L, & Hall, D (Eds.). (2004). Wellassured guide to managing stress. Clackamas, OR: Wellsource Inc.


Techniques of Stress Management :Techniques of Stress Management Time Management and Organization Ergonomics Lifestyle Choices


Effective Time Management and Organization :Effective Time Management and Organization Evaluating how your time is spent Update your to-do list every day Learning to say “no” to nonessential tasks Break large projects into manageable parts Anticipate Challenges: Being prepared can help you face stressful situations with confidence. Let Go: Take responsibility for your tasks, but don’t worry about things you can’t control. Remember to set aside time not only for tasks but also time for yourself to calm your nerves. (2008). Stress coping: stress in today's workplace. Retrieved October 27, 2008, from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Web site: http://healthylifestyle.upmc.com/StressWorkplace.htm


Ergonomics :Ergonomics Ergonomics is intended to maximize productivity by minimizing operator fatigue and discomfort. Light Posture Typing Anshel, Jeffrey (R.).Visual Ergonomics in the Workplace. AAOHN Journal. 55, 414. (2008). Learn about Keyboard Ergonomics - Ergonomic Computer Workstation. Retrieved October 27, 2008, from ERGO In Demand Website: http://www.ergoindemand.com/ergonomic-keyboarding.htm


Lifestyle :Lifestyle Diets: Rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can give you more energy. Snacking: If you tend to nibble when you’re stressed, don’t let your emotions take over. Caffeine: Energy boosts you may get from caffeine will wear off quickly. Exercise: Regular exercise can help keep depression and anxiety low. Consider it a break from the tensions of daily life. Sleep: 8 hours of sleep is recommended by experts however, 6 hours is a minimum to keep up with a hectic day-time-activity. (2008). Stress coping: stress in today's workplace. Retrieved October 27, 2008, from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Web site: http://healthylifestyle.upmc.com/StressWorkplace.htm


Job Stress :Job Stress Defined: “The harmful physical and emotional responses that occur when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker.” Signs of Job Stress: Health and job complaints among workers, low morale, high employee turnover, mood and sleep disturbances, upset stomachs and headaches, and disturbed relationships with family and friends are all early signs of job stress. (2008). Stress coping: stress in today's workplace. Retrieved October 27, 2008, from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Web site: http://healthylifestyle.upmc.com/StressWorkplace.htm


Job Conditions That May Lead to Stress :Job Conditions That May Lead to Stress The Design of Tasks Management Style Interpersonal Relationships Work Roles Career Concerns Environmental Conditions (2008). Stress coping: stress in today's workplace. Retrieved October 27, 2008, from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Web site: http://healthylifestyle.upmc.com/StressWorkplace.htm


Consequences of Job Stress :Consequences of Job Stress Increased Absenteeism Tardiness Reduced Productivity Poor Health Exhaustion and Fatigue Damaged Relationships Anshel, Jeffrey (R.).Visual Ergonomics in the Workplace. AAOHN Journal. 55, 414.


Consequences of job Stress Continued… :According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Workers who must take time off work because of stress, anxiety, or a related disorder will be off the job for about 20 days.” Evidence is rapidly accumulating to suggest that stress plays an important role in several types of chronic health problems, including cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders, and psychological disorders. (2008). Stress coping: stress in today's workplace. Retrieved October 27, 2008, from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Web site: http://healthylifestyle.upmc.com/StressWorkplace.htm Consequences of job Stress Continued…


So why is stress management important?? :So why is stress management important?? Effective stress management can lead to a less stressful life, and ultimately to more happiness and satisfaction within your work environment. A healthy organization is defined as, “One that has low rates of illness, injury, and disability in its workforce and is also competitive in the marketplace.” Prewitt, Ron (2004). Signs of a Healthy Work Environment. Retrieved October 27, 2008, from Medi-Smart Web site: http://www.medi-smart.com/career-signs.html