The Prevalence of Workplace Stress
Workplace stress is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including having responsibilities beyond your job role, experiencing an increase in your regular workload, and dealing with situations you have no control over. Other common causes include fear of being laid off, more overtime due to staff cutbacks, pressure to perform to meet rising expectations but with no increase in job satisfaction, and pressure to work at optimum levels—all the time. In recognition of National Stress Awareness Month, we have compiled some key findings from recent research on workplace stress and tips for managing it effectively.
According to recent studies, stress in the workplace is at an all-time high:
· The American Psychological Association’s 2021 Work and Well-being Survey was conducted online by The Harris Poll among more than 1,500 U.S. employees between July 26 and Aug. 4, 2021. The survey found that 79% of employees had experienced work-related stress in the month before the survey. Nearly 3 in 5 employees reported negative impacts of work-related stress, including lack of interest, motivation, or energy (26%) and lack of effort at work (19%). Meanwhile, 36% reported cognitive weariness, 32% reported emotional exhaustion, and an astounding 44% reported physical fatigue—a 38% increase since 2019. The survey typically includes a broad range of industries and areas to provide a comprehensive view of the American workforce.
· The APA’s 2023 Work in America Survey confirmed that psychological well-being is a very high priority for workers themselves. Specifically, 92% of workers said it is very or somewhat important to them to work for an organization that values their emotional and psychological well-being. However, workplace stress remains at a concerning level, with 77% of workers having reported experiencing work-related stress in the last month.
· The American Institute of Stress reports that 35% of workers say their boss is a cause of their workplace stress. 80% of U.S. workers experience work stress because of ineffective company communications, and 39% of North American employees report their workload as the main source of work stress.
The Impact of Family Stress and External Factors on Workplace Stress
Family stress can indeed contribute to workplace stress. This is often referred to as work-family conflict, where stressors in one’s personal life, such as family responsibilities, can spill over into the work domain and vice versa. A study found that work-related stress is correlated with job satisfaction, whereas home-related stress is correlated with marital satisfaction. Both work-related and home-related stress are correlated with life satisfaction.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, these stressors have become persistent and indefinite, heightening everyone’s risk of burnout. The pandemic introduced new stressors to nearly every domain of life, from longer work hours to increased demands at home. The long-term stress sustained since the COVID-19 pandemic began has had a significant impact on well-being.
As for external factors, there are many that can contribute to workplace stress. These can include factors such as noise, temperature, air quality, and ergonomic conditions, which can impact employees’ comfort, health, and overall well-being, contributing to stress and decreased productivity. Other external factors can include economic insecurity, high job demands, long work hours, and even unforeseen circumstances.
Tips for Managing Workplace Stress
- Open Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with your supervisors and colleagues. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification.
- Time Management: Prioritize tasks and break projects into manageable parts to reduce stress.
- Take Breaks: Short breaks during the workday can help refresh your mind and reduce stress.
- Seek Support: If stress becomes overwhelming, seek support. Many workplaces offer resources such as counseling services.
Resources for Stress Management
There are many resources available that offer help with stress management. Here are a few:
· National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Provides a wealth of information on stress and mental health, including resources for finding help.
· American Psychological Association (APA): Offers information on managing stress and finding a psychologist in your area.
· Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Provides information on how to find help for stress, mental health, and substance use disorders.
Workplace stress is a prevalent issue, but with the right strategies and resources, it can be managed effectively. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help if you’re feeling stressed. Let’s use this month to focus on our mental health and learn more about managing stress in the workplace.
Footnotes:
- Job burnout: How to spot it and take action – Mayo Clinic
- Burnout and stress are everywhere (apa.org)
- 2023 Work in America Survey: Workplaces as engines of psychological health and well-being (apa.org)
- Stress Research – The American Institute of Stress