Employee stress is something to be expected. Some research shows that levels of stress are actually a good thing. But too much work stress causes employee burnout and other unfortunate consequences.  At some point everyone has felt the pressure of work-related stress. Learn what causes employee stress, and the components of how a stress management program helps you manage stress in the workplace.    

Stress Management Programs in the Workplace

According to the APA 84% of U.S. adults say they feel at least one emotion associated with prolonged stress. Making stress management programs the ideal way to deal with work stress and employee burnout.

Companies who invest in programs that offer help with stress management in the workplace such as employee assistance programs (EAP), lower stress, and increase employee happiness benefits from having a culture that works.  

Common Sources of Workplace Stress

There are different sources of stress, and each person has a different level of acceptable stress. In general, workplace stress boils down to a few key factors:

1. Areas of responsibility Is the level of responsibility manageable?

2. Resources Are there sufficient resources, tools, technology, and personnel for employees to do well in their jobs?

3. Job security Have massive layoffs made employees on edge?

4. Work culture and transparency Do communication styles and culture support low-stress problem solving?

5. Organizational skills Are projects handed off in a logical process that works for everyone?

6. Interpersonal conflicts (office & home) Are there any personality conflicts among coworkers? Is an employee dealing with grief, anxiety or personal hardships outside of the office?

7. Work conditions and environment Are employees at risk of muscle aches, pains, or injury due to workstation arrangements?

8. Low salaries

Using a program for stress management in the workplace will address each according to the type of stress it represents physical stress, mental stress, or emotional stress

Related: How to Solve the 5 Biggest Problems with Stressful Jobs

Components of a Program for Stress Management in the Workplace

In the workplace, EAPs could work in a number of ways. The size of the organization, budget, and available resources will determine the best action to take.

Related: The Ultimate Cheat sheet for a Stress-Free Workplace

Ideas for Workplace Stress Management

Some ideas will be an easy addition to the workplace, while others may require significant organizational restructuring.

 
• Hold a lunch and learn session on managing stress
 
• Combat physical stress and injuries like carpal tunnel with regular onsite or virtual massage
 
• Utilize guided meditation & virtual yoga programs
 
• Offer flexible schedules, job-share, or work-from-home opportunities
 
• Address financial stress by providing financial wellness counseling
 
• Stress the importance of personal health and wellness in the company's values
 
• Evaluate changes needed to personnel or management styles to create a more emotionally intelligent team

Getting Started with Employee Stress Management through and EAP

First Things First: Survey Your Employees

As with any new initiative, the best first step is to survey employees to get their input. Based on the feedback you get from your employees; you can create a customized stress management program for your team.

 
• How do they feel about stress at work?
 
• What are their biggest job stresses?
 
• Are they interested in a program to improve their work experience?

Without knowing how your employees are doing, whatever program you create is likely to fail. You've got to have employee buy-in and input if a program is going to be successful.

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