Work-Related Stress and Stress Management By: Aleksandr Rodzinek Sergio Garcia

Stress Stress is an adaptive response to a situation that is perceived as challenging or threatening to a person’s well-being. Physiological Changes: Increased heart rate Tightened muscles Increased rate of breathing

General Adaptation Syndrome Alarm Reaction Occurs when a threat or challenge activates a physiological change. Resistance The ability to cope with stress in a work-related environment. Exhaustion A result of an on-going stressful environment.

Stressors: The Causes of Stress The causes of stress that include any environmental conditions that place a physical or emotional demand on a person.

Types of Stressors Interpersonal Stressors Workplace Violence: Physical and physiological attacks on employees. Psychological and Sexual Harassment: Includes hostile or unwanted conduct, verbal comments, and gestures. Role-Related Stressors Work Overload: The result of growing consumerism and advancements in technology. Task Control Stressors Mandatory stress that employees must deal with in order to perform the task at hand. Non-work Stressors Time-Based Conflict Strain-Based Conflict Role Behavior Conflict

Individual Differences in Stress Different threshold levels of resistance to a certain stressor. Different coping strategies, some of which may be more effective than others. Different beliefs about the threat and their ability to withstand it. Resilience – the capability of individuals to cope successfully in the face of significant stress.

Consequences of Distress Physiological Shuts down the immune system. Tension headaches Cardiovascular disease Strokes and heart attacks Psychological Job Dissatisfaction Moodiness Depression Overall emotional fatigue Job Burnout Behavioral Falling job performance Lack of concentration High level of absenteeism Workplace Aggression

Managing Work-Related Stress Remove The Stressor Work-Life Balance Initiatives Flexible Work Time Job Sharing Telecommuting Personal Leave Child Care Support Withdraw from the Stressor Temporary Withdrawal Strategies Personal days off Employee break rooms

Managing Work-Related Stress Control the Consequences of Stress Employee Assistance Programs are counseling services that help employees with any work or personal stress. Receive Social Support Employees improve their perceptions that they are valued and worthy Employees receive help interpreting, comprehending, and removing stressors Emotional support from others can directly help to buffer the stress experience