Stress at Work and Avoiding Burnout

The American Psychological Association (APA) has identified some common workplace stressors that contribute to bad choices when it comes to coping with the demands of the job.

Some of these stressors are:

• Getting paid less than you think you deserve
• Having a manager or boss load up your plate beyond what you can handle
• Few opportunities for real job growth or meaningful advancement
• Work that is mundane and holds little challenge (a monkey could do it)
• Lack of support from social connections
• Unclear performance expectations from your boss
• Little control over job-related decisions or the direction of the business

Ways that some people cope or decompress that are potentially harmful:

• Complain to their spouse
• Complain to other employees
• Get angry and strike out at innocent people
• Eat the wrong foods in excess
• Drink too much alcohol
• Lose sleep
• Grind their teeth
  

Ways to respond that support a healthier lifestyle:

• Ask for a raise with facts to support the request or meet with the supervisor to get a better understanding of the job responsibilities
• Exercise versus eating–exercise daily on a set routine with a goal
• Avoid fast food and junk food to ease stress
• Get enough sleep
• Make time for hobbies and recreation outside of work
• Set up limitations on how often you check email, text and social media
• Consider going to a counselor, therapist or minister for help
• Talk to your dentist about a nightguard for teeth grinding
• Make good use of vacation days—actually take a vacation not just time off
• Learn to meditate and relax
• Take a yoga class