Most of us are stressed. In fact, research proves it. According to the American Psychological Association, two-thirds of adults reported that work is a main source of stress in their lives. Living with stress can cause you to make mistakes or miss work, plus it can lead to health issues like high blood pressure, depression and more. While it sounds overwhelming, there are steps you can take to reduce your work-related stress. Here are a few tips to consider that may help:
- Take care of yourself. Making time to exercise, getting more sleep and improving your diet can all contribute to lower stress and improved well-being. For example, a short walk break during the day can help you feel refreshed and refocused.
- Talk to your employer. Adjusting your work schedule can have a big impact on your work/life balance. Ask if your organization offers opportunities to shift your hours to avoid rush hour, take an extended lunch hour to work out or run errands, or work from home as needed. These small changes can have a big impact on your stress level.
- Take advantage of available resources. Your employer may also offer access to programs that can help address any personal issues contributing to your stress.
- Through health advocacy programs, nurses and other experts can resolve healthcare issues including bills, insurance questions and more.
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) provide counseling and other assistance to help with personal issues including stress, depression, substance abuse and more.
- Further, some employers may offer onsite support groups to share and discuss concerns that may be adding to workplace stress.
- Many organizations are also beginning to introduce other helpful strategies, such as allowing pets in the workplace.
For more tips about reducing stress at work, check out these ideas:
- Making the Most of a Long Commute
- Reduce stress by de-cluttering your desk and office
- Simple ways to show appreciation to your employees and co-workers
- The benefits of single-tasking
- Ten tips for improved time management and productivity at work
- Workplace Ergonomics: Protect Yourself from Long-Term Injury
Health Advocate also recently updated its free whitepaper, “Stress in the Workplace: Meeting the Challenge,” which offers additional strategies for employers to help their employees reduce stress in the workplace. Download it free here to share with your employer.
For Health Advocate Members
If you’re a Health Advocate member with access to EAP+Work/Life, a Licensed Professional Counselor can help you address issues contributing to work-related stress and come up with a plan to reduce it.
