Job Stress - What You Need to Know about It

"Job Stress is far and away the major source of stress for American adults" according to the American Institute of Stress (AIS).

• 40% of workers say their job is extremely stressful

• 25% say that their job is the number one stressor in their life

• 70% of employees believe that workers have more stress on the job today than 20 years ago

• Problems at work are more strongly associated with health problems than any other life stressor - including financial and family problems

Job Stress is defined by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health as "the harmful physical and emotional responses that occur when requirements of the job do not match capabilities, resources, and needs of the worker." It occurs when a worker feels he has no control over the high demands placed on him.

Experiencing stress is not the same as being challenged. A challenge is something you rise higher to accomplish. It energizes and motivates you to be more productive. It results in greater skill development and job satisfaction.

What are the leading causes of stress on the job?

• Too much work

• Work that is above your ability

• Too little work (boredom)

• Conflicting expectations

• Problems with the boss (too controlling, unsupportive)

• Poor relationships with co-workers

• Unrealistic deadlines

• Unreasonable hours

• Fear of being laid off

• Being at the wrong job for you

Early signs of this stress include headaches, insomnia, moodiness, difficulty concentrating, low morale, disturbed relationships. Over the long term the development of cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, psychological diseases, cancer, autoimmune diseases has been found.

Take heart - there is help available. You can find ways to overcome this stress. You can take the upper hand in your situation.

Some things you can do to ease workplace stress

• Do your part to make your work environment comfortable to fit your needs

• Treat co-workers and with respect

• Discuss problems with your boss. If that doesn't work, go higher

• Talk to a trusted friend about the problems you're experiencing

• Get counseling

• If you have a long commute, listen to CD's (music or books on CD)

• Do not work through lunch or break times

• Use breathing exercises, meditation and other stress relief techniques to clear your mind throughout the day

• Eat a healthy diet and exercise

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