Stress - Risk Factors

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Not all work stress is harmful. However, studies suggest the following job-related stressors may increase people's -- particularly men's -- health risks:

Having no say in decisions that affect one's responsibilities

Unrelenting and unreasonable performance demands

Lack of effective communication and conflict-resolution methods among workers and employers

Lack of job security

Night-shift work, long hours, or both

Too much time spent away from home and family

Wages not matching levels of responsibility

Reducing Stress on the Job. Many institutions within the current culture, while paying lip service to stress reduction, put intense pressure on individuals to behave in ways that increase tension. Yet, there are numerous effective management tools and techniques available to reduce stress. Furthermore, treatment for work-related stress has proven benefits for both the employee and employer. In one study, at the end of 2 years, a company that instituted a stress management program saved nearly $150,000 in workmen's compensations costs (the cost of the program was only $6,000). Other studies in 2002 and 2003 reported specific health benefits resulting from workplace stress-management programs. In one of the studies, workers with hypertension experienced reduced blood pressure after even a brief (16-hour) program that helped them manage stress behaviorally.

In general, however, few workplaces offer stress management programs, and it is usually up to the employee to find their own ways to reduce stress. Here are some suggestions:

Seek out someone in the Human Resources department or a sympathetic manager and communicate concerns about job stress. Work with them in a non-confrontational way to improve working conditions, letting them know that productivity can be improved if some of the pressure is off.

Establish or reinforce a network of friends at work and at home.

Restructure priorities and eliminate unnecessary tasks.

Learn to focus on positive outcomes.

If the job is unendurable, plan and execute a career change. Send out resumes or work on transfers within the company.

If this isn't possible, be sure to schedule daily pleasant activities and physical exercise during free time.