Work-related stress refers to the adverse reaction experienced by employees when they face excessive pressures or demands in the workplace. It is a widespread issue that can affect individuals at all levels of an organization, regardless of industry or sector.
The Health and Safety Executive of Northern Ireland (HSENI) has the following definition of work-related stress:
“Work-related stress encompasses the negative response individuals have towards excessive pressures or demands encountered in their work environment.”
Stress arises when we struggle to cope with various pressures and challenges. When these difficulties originate from the workplace, they are termed work-related stress or occupational stress. Alternatively, the term work stress can also be used.
Work-related stress can build up
Work-related stress can gradually accumulate and intensify. It often emerges when unexpected responsibilities arise or when we face pressures beyond our skill set, which hampers our ability to cope effectively.
Perceived lack of support typically leads to increased levels of stress. When workers have limited or no control over work processes, work-related stress becomes more prevalent.
When too much or too little is demanded of us
Experiencing work-related stress occurs when the demands placed upon employees surpass their ability to cope effectively. Coping entails achieving a balance between job requirements and individual capabilities, effectively managing the pressures and expectations in relation to one’s knowledge and skills.
For instance, if an employee receives a demanding project with a tight deadline for which they feel ill-prepared, they are likely to experience undue pressure, potentially resulting in work-related stress.
Occupational stress arises not only from excessive demands but also from insufficient ones.
According to HSENI:
“Stress can also emerge from insufficient demands, as individuals may become bored, undervalued, and lacking in recognition.”
“Feeling a lack of control over one’s work tasks or methods can also contribute to stress.”
Managing work-related stress
Effectively managing work-related stress is crucial in the workplace, as emphasized by MIND, a British mental health charity formerly known as the National Association for Mental Health (NAMH) since its establishment in 1946.
Individuals enduring high levels of work-related stress are at risk of developing mental health problems, including conditions like depression.
Additionally, occupational stress can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.
Origins of work-related stress
The origins of work-related stress can be attributed to various factors within the workplace. Stressors, which refer to elements that induce stress or trigger the release of stress hormones, are prevalent in work environments. In this context, the term “stressor” signifies something that causes stress.
Below are several sources of occupational stress:
- Impediments or barriers hindering career development.
- Challenging relationships with superiors characterized by incompetence, hostility, aggression, or abusive behavior.
- Instances of workplace harassment, encompassing forms such as racial slurs, degrading comments, or gender-based mistreatment. Workplace bullying is also included within this terminology.
- A toxic environment marked by internal conflicts and interpersonal dramas.
- Excessive workload resulting in an overwhelming sense of negativity.
- The necessity to work excessively long hours.
- Financial pressures amplifying the burden experienced by employees.
Signs of work-related stress
Indicators of work-related stress can manifest through changes in employees’ behavior, making it crucial for management to be attentive and proactive in identifying these signs.
Listed below are two sets of signs delineating work-related stress in both individual employees and teams:
Signs of work-related stress in employees
- Alterations in behavior, such as tardiness or increased absenteeism. Heightened nervousness and irritability may also be observed.
- Shifts in emotions and thoughts, encompassing mood swings, diminished motivation, self-confidence, and commitment. Reactions may become more emotionally charged, and individuals may exhibit withdrawal tendencies.
Signs of work-related stress in teams
- Escalation in conflicts and arguments within the team.
- Rise in reported cases of stress among team members.
- Increase in complaints and grievances filed.
- Higher frequency of sick leave among team members.
- Accelerated staff turnover, indicating a higher rate of employee departures from the organization.
- Impaired performance exhibited by the team.
The Health and Safety Executive for the whole of the UK has the following advice if there are signs of stress:
“Taking early action can mitigate the impact of pressure and facilitate the reduction or elimination of underlying causes. If managers express concerns about an employee displaying such signs, it is advisable to encourage them to consult their general practitioner, as these signs may be symptomatic of other conditions.”
“If work-related factors contribute to the problem, managers should take appropriate measures to address the situation.”
Work-related stress and its impact on health
Numerous studies have underscored the adverse health consequences associated with high levels of occupational stress, some of which are severe and potentially fatal.
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Risk of cancer
A research team in China conducted an analysis encompassing 280,000 male and female employees across North America and Europe. Their findings revealed that work-related stress was linked to an increased susceptibility to colorectal and esophageal cancers, as well as a heightened risk of lung cancer.
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Heightened vulnerability to cardiovascular diseases
Cardiovascular diseases encompass a range of conditions involving the heart and blood vessels.
Scientists at University College London examined data on 600,000 men and women in the United States, Japan, and Europe. They identified a correlation between occupational stress, prolonged working hours, and a moderately elevated risk of stroke. Additionally, they observed a greater susceptibility to coronary heart disease.
The researchers stated:
This extensive review, encompassing data from more than 600,000 individuals in 27 cohort studies conducted across Europe, the United States, and Japan, highlights the association between work stressors, specifically job strain, and extended working hours, are associated with a moderately increased risk of incident coronary heart disease and stroke.”
“The excess risk for individuals exposed to such stressors ranges from 10-40% compared to those free from these stressors.”
Some individuals advocate for teleworking, also known as working from home, as a potential solution. However, the belief that teleworking eliminates stress is unfounded. Teleworking entails working from a location other than the primary workplace, such as one’s home.
Researchers at Baylor University discovered that the likelihood of experiencing work-related stress at home is not necessarily lower than in the office. What matters is one’s ability to manage stress effectively and individual disposition (which may play a role in conjunction).
