Job Stress

By Dawn Rosenberg McKay

Jobs Vacancy, Job vacancies, Employment Jobs

According to Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, stress, in general, is “a physical, chemical, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension and may be a factor in disease causation.” One type of stress is job stress. With job stress, the stressors involved are work-related.

Causes of Job Stress

If you can figure out the cause of your job stress, then you can find a cure. Here are some possible causes:

• Overwork: working late, taking work home, not taking vacation

• Impending layoffs

• Being in the wrong career

• Conflict with boss or co-workers

Early Warning Signs^*

If you catch symptoms early, you have a better chance of fixing the problem so you don't end up with more chronic and serious problems. Here's what to look out for:

• Job dissatisfaction

• Sleep disturbances

• Short temper

• Upset stomach

• Headache

• Disturbed relationships with family and friends

• Low morale

• Teeth grinding

• Increased use of drugs or alcohol

Long-Term Problems

If left untreated, job stress can lead to some serious problems. They are:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Musculoskeletal disorders

• Psychological disorders

Cures

You'll need to be proactive if you want to cure your job stress. Here are some fixes that address the causes listed above:

• If overwork is your problem, take a vacation, leave work on time as often as possible, and avoid taking work home.

• If you're worried about layoffs, all you can do is make sure you're prepared should that happen.

• If you find that you made the wrong career choice, or your career is no longer fulfilling, it may be time for a change. Make your choices carefully.

• If you are having conflicts with your boss or co-workers, try to work them out. Although it may be difficult to resolve personality differences, you can try to figure out a way to get along better.

• If your stress is having a profound effect on your life, don't be afraid to get professional help.