Job stress causes a worker to feel overly taxed both mentally and physically.  It affects both workers and employers.

What Causes Job Stress?

·        Too much work to do.  Conflicting expectations.

·        Lack of support fro co-workers and bosses.

·        Crowded, noisy, unsafe work conditions.  Infrequent rest breaks.

·        Rapid changes for which workers are not prepared.  Job insecurity.

If not dealt with, job stress can lead to health problems.

Signs & Symptoms of Job Stress:

·        Hard time concentrating.  Headache.

·        Sleep problems.  Stomach problems.

·        Short temper.

·        Job dissatisfaction.  Low morale.

·        Increase in being late for work or not going to work.

Ways to Manage Job Stress

·        Schedule your time and tasks to be done.  Use a calendar, planner, “TO DO” lists, etc.  Rank order tasks.  Break tasks down into steps.  Check off items that are done.

·        Organize your work space to make ti easier to find things.  Get rid of items and e-mails that you don’t need.

·        Ask for help from your boss and co-workers, as needed.  Ask your boss for the order in which your job tasks need to be done.

·        Take breaks. Get enough sleep.

·        Leave work at work.  Try not to take work home.  If this is not possible, take as little work home as you need to.

·        Plan for and take vacations that give you a rest from work.

·        Relax as much as you can.