Double Dose: Combatting Mental Illness and Stress Management in the Workplace

Posted in Medshield Wellness   |   July 16th, 2019

July presents itself with a double dose of consciousness highlighted through Mental Illness Awareness Month and Corporate Wellness Week from the 1st – 5th July 2019. In today’s fast-paced society, employees experience stress in the workplace on a daily basis. Work stress combined with other mental health conditions, such as depression, impact on the productivity of employees and in turn also on the performance of companies and organisations in South Africa. It is therefore important that employers pay increased attention to their employees’ wellness, especially with regards to mental health.

Work stress is an inevitable part of the job but not all stress is bad as it keeps us on our toes and, at times, we can even learn to excel under the pressure. However, when work stress places unreasonable and overwhelming demands on an individual, this can result in undue anxiety and an inability to cope effectively.

Work-related stress can negatively affect your productivity by compromising your ability to adequately perform your job responsibilities. While it is impossible to control everything within your work environment, you are not powerless when it comes to overcoming the negative implications of work-related stress.

Simple tips for coping with work stress

Research shows that the most effective remedies for effective stress management in the workplace are relaxation methods and psychological detachment. This means you should learn to engage in stress relieving activities like exercise, socializing or hobbies and by learning to balance your personal and work life. Some of the simple things you can do to de-stress include:

• Practicing self-care methods like being aware of your own limitations
• Getting enough sleep
• Sticking to a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet and regular exercise
• Avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking
• Taking breaks or leave so you can recharge
• Practicing mindfulness or meditation
• Learning effective time management skills

Work stress can have serious physical, mental and emotional implications if you’re unable to manage this effectively. At Medshield, we’re dedicated to creating healthy work environments and promoting a healthy lifestyle to encourage you to be proactive and take steps to combat the negative effects of work-related stress.

Sources

https://www.lifehealthcare.co.za/news-and-info-hub/latest-news/why-corporate-wellness-is-important/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2013/09/12/five-reasons-corporate-wellness-is-more-important-than-ever/#56b87a107e66