Generation Stress

Generation Stress

How often are you asked “How are you?” and you’ve instantly replied, “Stressed!”? Recent studies show that the UK is one of the worst countries in Europe for stress and our workplaces are increasingly stressful.  Your head throbs, heart pounds, nerves twitch, you can’t concentrate and you have 101 things to do before the end of the day.  Welcome to “Generation Stress”.

We all know what it feels like when life’s demands get on top of us. Everyone seems pressed for time these days. We have to do our best at work, be available to our families and friends and take good care of ourselves. Stress affects virtually all of us and if left unmanaged it can have a serious impact on our health, productivity, personal and work relationships.

Thriving on stress

It’s not all bad news though. A certain level of pressure is good for us. It can compel us to action and provide a new Stress can be good for youawareness or perspective. The buzz of a new challenge keeps life interesting. But when we are exposed to this many times a day, day in and day out, year in and year out, it’s unhealthy. It can make us afraid to make changes, drain energy levels and creativity, and damage relationships. It can also push us to engage in unhealthy behaviour such as binge eating or drinking. Over long periods of time stress can make us physically ill.

The raised blood pressure, increased heartbeat, and numerous other symptoms are stress reactions called “fight or flight” responses. These primitive responses date back centuries, but the triggers for it have changed. Nowadays it might simply be an important meeting or urgent request, rather than coming face to face with a group of wild animals.

Common Symptoms of Stress

The most common indicators of mild to moderate stress include:

  • Sleeping problems
  • Headaches
  • Neck or back pain
  • Muscle tension
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Poor concentration

Prolonged stress can also weaken your immune system and make you prone to sore throats, colds and flu.

Stress in the workplace

There are many ways in which you can manage stress – both for yourself and your employees. The first step is to become aware of it.

Ceridian provides an Employee Assistance Programme called LifeWorks, which can help your company’s employees deal with stressful situations.

LifeWorks consultants are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, providing confidential telephone advice or printed material to support employees and help them manage stress.

Information and advice can be provided on a range of topics such as recognising the signs of stress, relaxation techniques, nutrition, positive thinking, expressing your emotions, taking care of yourself, achieving a healthy balance between work and home, coping with change, and time management.

Even if your specific issue isn’t listed above, it’s still worth a call. Get started online today.

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