Stress and its Prevention

The shift of roles from one which is already established to a new one can be considered to be stressful due to various factors that are associated with it. Some of these factors include unfamiliar settings, changes in the managerial style, heavy workload, infrequent breaks, long hours and shift, lack of motivation, and unnecessary routine tasks that may be experienced in the new setting. In the United States, it is estimated that 60% of the employees associate the source of stress to their jobs and their responsibilities (Hussung, 2015). This paper will discuss the about ways of identifying stress and how it can be prevented or reduced

Identification of Stress

Stress resulting from a change in roles in the work environment can easily be mistaken with challenges. However, it can easily be identified by the signs that accompany it, such as feeling overwhelmed, loss of confidence, being angry frequently, and social withdrawal. Others include problems with sleeping, loss of interest at work, and headaches (Hussung, 2015). It is noteworthy to consider that the signs above occur after the shift, and the individual did not have them before he/she took the new role.

Stress Reduction and Prevention

The most crucial and best initial way of dealing with stress at work is through sharing the experience with someone close such as a family member. Through face-to-face communication, people tend to understand and give support, which is useful in reducing it and regaining calmness (Segal et al., 2019). I consider this the “power of a good listener.” Furthermore, support from co-workers can be sought, leaning on friends and other family members who can understand the situation and building new satisfying friends can also be a good strategy of dealing with it initially.

Besides, support of health through exercise and nutrition also works very well. This is because of their ability to make an individual more resilient to stress. Furthermore, taking care of oneself does not need a total change in lifestyle but simple things that can lift mood, raise the energy levels, and let go things that one does not have control over (Segal et al., 2019). Fortunately, regular exercises give those advantages. It can also sharpen focus and relax both the mind and the body. Other rhythmic movements such as dancing, drumming, and working work best by soothing the nervous system, and thus, regular 30 minutes of activity can be the best way to relieve stress.

Additionally, food choices can play a significant role in stress reduction. This is because eating small and frequent meals maintains an even level of blood sugar, which then increases energy, maintains focus, and prevents issues such as mood swings. However, it is essential to consider reducing intake of sugar and refined carbs, reduction of food that adversely affects mood such as caffeine and trans fats, and eating more of Omega-3 fatty acids to boost mood (Segal et al., 2019). Others include avoidance of nicotine and drinking alcohol in moderation.

The quality of sleep also influences stress levels. This is because it affects creativity, ability to focus, productivity, and problem-solving skills of an individual. Therefore, improvement of the quality of sleep through adopting a good routine can promote the better side of life (Segal et al., 2019). Some of the activities that can be done are sleeping and getting up the same time each day, being keen on the diet to ensure it does not interfere with quality sleep, turning off screens at least one hour before bedtime, and avoidance of stressful situations in bed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, stress issues in the workplace are common, and they result from various sources, including changes in responsibilities. However, they can be identified through their symptoms, which occur after the stimuli. Fortunately, it can be easily managed through sharing with friends and family, regular exercise and nutrition, and engaging quality sleep patterns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

References

Hussung, T. (2015, September 4). Understanding Work Stress: Causes, Symptoms and Solutions. Retrieved October 12, 2019, from https://online.csp.edu/blog/business/understanding-work-stress.

Segal, J., Smith, M., Robinson, L., Segal, R. (2019). Stress in the Workplace. Retrieved 12 October 2019, from https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-in-the-workplace.htm