From nurse to accountant, construction worker to chief executive officer, the number of Americans who report that they are stressed at work is high — between 26 and 40 percent — and it could be going higher. Stress in the workplace can have significant health consequences, such as getting more colds or even developing heart disease.

Early warning signs of workplace stress can range from headaches and sleep disturbances, to difficulty in concentrating and stomach problems. Chronic conditions linked to stress include cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal and psychological disorders. Stressful work conditions also may contribute to workplace injury, suicide and ulcers.

Combating workplace stress can be approached from several different fronts. Start by identifying the causes of stress and determine if they can be changed or not. Some other steps that can be taken to manage a stressful workplace include the following:

• Get off to a good start by eating a healthy breakfast, planning ahead, and having a positive attitude.

• Set expectations and have a clear understanding of what is required to get your job done.

• Try to stay away from conflict by avoiding office gossip.

• Stay organized so you can be more efficient.

• Pace workday activities by tackling more demanding projects in the morning when you are fresh and doing easier work in the afternoon when you may be tired.

• Take breaks throughout the day to help unwind or enroll in an after-work exercise program to lift your mood

• Focus on one job at a time, do it well, and then move on the next item on your agenda.

• Listen to music on the way home to help relieve stress after work.

To help you identify your particular stress profile, take the free, online stress assessment on the Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake website at DoctorsHospitalDallas.com/ResponsetoStress.

Photo credit: iStock/Thinkstock

Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake

9400 Poppy Drive
Dallas, TX 75218

214-324-6100
www.doctorshospitaldallas.com