80% Employees Facing Stress at Workplace; Mental Health Issues on the Rise
Varanasi (UP): The competitive and fast-paced lifestyle of modern times has drastically altered human routines, leading to rising levels of stress. Today, nearly every third person struggles with mental stress. While 60% of the global population is working, around 80% experience stress on the job. Among them, women face work-related stress 25% more than men. Dr. Manoj Kumar Tiwari, senior counselor at IMS, BHU, ART Center, SS Hospital, reports that annually, 12 billion workdays are lost globally due to depression and anxiety, causing productivity losses worth $1 trillion each year.
Dr. Tiwari explains that the main causes of workplace stress include excessive workload, extended hours, job insecurity, conflicts with colleagues or superiors, tight deadlines, lack of employee involvement in decision-making, poor communication, uncomfortable work environment, and unprofessional behavior. Physical symptoms of stress include headaches, muscle pain, sleep issues, constipation, loss of appetite, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Emotional symptoms include anxiety, depression, anger, irritability, fatigue, hopelessness, and low self-esteem.
Stress among employees also impacts the company or organization. Increased accidents, absenteeism, higher turnover, reduced motivation, job dissatisfaction, lower commitment to work, negative brand reputation, low interest from professionals in recruitment, reduced productivity, and profit decline are all common results.
Tips for Managing Stress
Dr. Tiwari advises that while stress cannot be entirely eliminated due to its numerous causes, stress management can significantly reduce its negative impacts. Maintaining a healthy work style is essential for reducing workplace stress.
Time Management: Many feel stressed due to excessive workloads and strict deadlines. Effective time management can help reduce this pressure. List tasks by priority and importance, completing high-priority tasks first while aiming to complete others within deadlines. Create a daily or weekly schedule with specific times for different tasks. Remember, no one can perfectly follow their schedule, so avoid stressing over this.
Digital Tools: Utilize digital tools and apps designed for task management, such as calendars, to-do lists, and project management software. Break tasks into smaller steps to boost confidence and progress steadily.
Focus on One Task: Avoid multitasking as it can reduce productivity and increase stress. Focusing on one task at a time minimizes errors and prevents overwhelm.
Clear Work Hours: Set and stick to clear work hours, inform colleagues and seniors about these timings, and avoid checking work-related emails or messages after hours. Take brief breaks during the workday to recharge. Stepping away from the desk can improve focus and reduce stress.
Regular Exercise: Exercise can alleviate stress and improve mood. Incorporate physical activity into your routine, and engage in hobbies that bring joy outside of work.
Reducing Stress at the Workplace with Mindfulness
Simple activities such as mindfulness exercises, taking short breaks, walking, enjoying favorite meals, and listening to music can help reduce stress at the workplace.