Am I experiencing workplace stress?

Stress can look different on everyone, but you are the best person to know if something isn't right. Here are some types of workplace stress:

Work-related Pressures

This type of workplace stress might look like:

• Being expected to work late, respond to work-related emails or messages during personal time, or feeling pressured to be available 24/7.

• Being given too much or too little work. Excessive workload can be overwhelming, while insufficient work may lead to feelings of boredom or concerns of job insecurity.

Health and Safety Issues

This type of workplace stress might look like:

• Working in an environment with potential physical risks or inadequate safety measures, which can contribute to chronic stress and anxiety.

• Feeling worse when you raise these issues and nothing happens.

Bad Management

This type of workplace stress might look like:

• Harsh or unsupportive management approaches that ignore employee input and fail to embrace diversity, causing stress in the workforce.

• Lack of appreciation for your efforts and achievements, leading to demotivation and impacting overall job satisfaction.

• Lack of clarity about job responsibilities, goals, or organizational changes, creating anxiety and stress as individuals struggle to meet expectations or adapt to new circumstances.

• Insufficient support for workers experiencing personal or professional difficulties.

Conflict in the Workplace

This type of workplace stress might look like:

• Experiencing bullying, violence, or discrimination (sexual, racial, disability) in the workplace, leading to significant stress.

• Even if you're not directly involved, ongoing conflict between colleagues can create a tense and uncomfortable work environment.

• Feeling worse when the conflict is not resolved, especially if you have raised this with your employer.

What Does This Look Like?

You might feel:

• Irritable, impatient, or wound up.

• Overwhelmed by the workload or responsibilities, often struggling to manage tasks efficiently.

• Worried, anxious, or nervous.

• Tense and tired.

So...

If you're experiencing unreasonable stress in the workplace, the best first step is to talk to your manager or someone else in the business who may be able to assist. Don't let it build up until it's untenable if you can help it. You deserve a workplace you enjoy going to! Unfortunately, sometimes it might not be possible to raise it with anyone, or if you do, they might not help. In this case, we recommend getting advice before you reach the point of feeling you have to resign.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. While we strive to keep the information accurate and up to date, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the blog or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the blog for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please contact a qualified legal professional.