Experiencing stress in the workplace can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and sometimes inevitable. Deadlines are fast approaching, expectations seem too high to reach, and the pressure piles up. Whether you work in hospitality, construction, healthcare, the legal sector, or many others, stress is a universal experience we all go through at one point or another. Especially throughout the winter months, with fewer daylight hours and more time spent inside, we are likely to turn focus on our work as a distraction until the first sign of spring arrives along with our hope of warmer weather and better days. Regardless, with or without the colder months, stress in the workplace is common.
It is important to remember that there are healthy ways we can help prevent, manage, and cope with our stress in the workplace. Below lists some ideas that can help you manage your workplace stress:
Take your hard-earned breaks: Oftentimes, especially in fast-paced, billable-hour positions, we forget and do not prioritize taking our lunches or breaks. Getting stuck in a routine of skipping lunch or breaks can feel easy to do, but it’s important to prioritize taking time for yourself during work hours, even if it’s just for a short amount of time. Going outside for a walk on your break, or even stepping outside to breathe in fresh air and soak up some Vitamin D can help us calm down and reset our mind and body. Also, don’t forget to eat throughout the day, we need food to fuel our bodies!
Join a club, activity, or social event (if possible) in your workplace: As mentioned, having time throughout your day that is separate from your direct work is sacred, and can help boost your mood. It may feel like a chore at times but socializing and spending time with your coworkers can strengthen relationships with others who may be feeing a similar way – Plus, who knows, you might end up enjoying it and having fun!
Listening to music while you work: If your work allows it and you enjoy listening to music, plug in an earphone and escape from the surrounding distractions in your environment! Listening to your favourite artist or band, or even some classical music could help you focus and lighten your mood while working.
Get up and stretch: If you have a position that requires you to be regularly sitting down, or be in the same position for hours, it can be strenuous on your body and your mind. I’m not saying to get up and start doing yoga by any means, but it’s important to move your body. Even standing up, walking around, stretching your neck and shoulders, can help reduce tension and the physical symptoms that stress can have on us.
Speak with your employer/supervisor about supports: Sometimes workplace stress becomes all-consuming and it’s important to recognize when it’s time to reach out for extra supports when needed. It can be intimidating and stressful in and of itself to ask for support but be reminded that not taking steps to benefit your mental well-being can be detrimental to your health. Although the thought of reaching out for help may seem scary, the thought of continuing in a cycle of stress can be scarier. Also, discussions regarding employee mental health are becoming more prevalent, and oftentimes the first step in receiving help is asking for it.
Even though these suggestions can help you manage or cope with your workplace stress, there is no “quick fix” to solving stress in our lives. If you or anyone you know need to reach out for help you can access these recourses:
Call or Text 9-8-8: A free, confidential mental health Crisis Helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Call or Text 2-1-1: A free, confidential service that can provide assistance with community and social resources
Go to https://cmha.ca to find the local Canadian Mental Health Association branch in your area, and visit their website for available resources and support near you.
This WARDS LAWYERS PC publication is for general information only. It is not legal advice, nor is it intended to be. Specific or more information may be necessary before advice could be provided for your particular circumstances.
