Navigating Workplace Stress
Stress is described as the body’s reaction to feeling threatened and under pressure. Stress Awareness Day is a dedicated time to raise awareness and address the impact of stress on our daily lives. Around 80% of employees experience moderate-to-high levels of stress in the workplace.
Not all stress is inherently negative; in fact, there is a type known as good stress, or eustress, which is short-lived and can be quite beneficial. This stress motivates and energises us. It can enhance our performance in tough situations, like preparing for a big work event. Conversely, bad stress, or distress, is chronic. It typically arises from persistent pressures like work demands. This type can lead to adverse health effects, including anxiety and fatigue. By knowing the difference between these two types of stress, we can manage our responses. We can harness the benefits of good stress and reduce the harms of bad stress.
Signs of Stress in the Workplace
Behavioural Signs
- Increased Absenteeism: More frequent time off work.
- Decreased Performance: Drop in work quality or productivity.
- Withdrawal: Avoiding interactions with colleagues.
Emotional Signs
- Mood Swings: Frequent changes in mood.
- Anxiety: Feeling nervous or on edge.
- Depression: Feeling down or hopeless.
Physical Signs
- Fatigue: Constantly tired or lacking energy.
- Sleep Problems: Difficulty sleeping or restless sleep.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches or migraines.
Cognitive Signs
- Difficulty Concentrating: Hard to focus or stay on task.
- Memory Problems: Forgetting things more often.
- Increased Conflict: More arguments with colleagues.
Bupa Personal Energy Sessions
To help our people manage stress effectively, we offer Bupa Personal Energy Sessions during working hours. These workshops aim to recharge and rejuvenate. They ensure our people have the resources to thrive, both personally and professionally. Some key aspects of the sessions include:
- Self-Awareness: The sessions help participants understand their personal motivations for maintaining good energy levels and identify factors that affect their energy and well-being.
- Practical Tools: Participants learn how their lifestyle choices impact their energy and are provided with tools to maintain a positive mindset.
- Action Plans: Each session includes creating a Personal Energy action plan with simple, everyday strategies to manage energy effectively.
Michele’s Personal Energy Journey
Job role: Technical Customer Support Specialist Team Lead
I would 100% recommend Personal Energy sessions to others. The secret lies in their simplicity and the meaningful conversations that take place during the sessions. We often think we know this stuff, but the sessions remind us that we get out of life what we put in. Investing in yourself, taking the time, and focusing on one small change can have a significant impact.
I initially attended the Personal Energy session with some scepticism, having been involved with Performance Energy before. However, I had seen the positive impact it had on others when given a safe space and time to explore stress management techniques.
As an IT support team lead and qualified coach, I have always been interested in people. Previously I trained as counsellor, I am a mental health first aider and have an avid interest in psychology. I understood the theory behind stress management but putting it into practice didn't always hit the mark. The Personal Energy sessions provided a simple and easy-to-follow method for applying these techniques. Each of the nine modules offered practical strategies that made a noticeable difference. For example, I now aim to get to bed super early one or two nights a week and pay more attention to my diet. The mindset techniques, which I was already familiar with, were reinforced and embedded through these sessions.
One of the most valuable aspects of the sessions was the focus on mindset. It covered reframing, gratitude, and focus. The simplicity of the Personal Energy approach, combined with the safe environment created by the facilitators, encouraged participants to pause and reflect. My biggest tip is to start small and build from there, without being too critical of yourself if you don’t succeed all the time.
Since attending and now facilitating these sessions, I’ve noticed a positive impact on my stress levels and overall well-being. Although I consider myself quite chilled, the sessions have helped me practice what I preach more consistently. The biggest learning has been the impact on others—everyone takes away something different, and it helps people become more aware and make positive changes. Every time I run a session, I learn more from participants, and no session is ever the same due to the diverse stories and experiences shared.
Incorporating what I’ve learned into my daily routine has been transformative. I journal regularly, take lunch away from my desk, and adjust my start times to care for my mum. These practices help me take stock and keep track of my well-being. I also make an effort to eat dinner with my husband each day to catch up, exercise regularly, and try to eat healthily, although that remains a challenge for me.
Overall, my perception of stress has evolved since attending the sessions. Whilst I was aware that a little stress can be good, I now better recognise my tipping point. When my body starts to ache, my mood changes, and my behaviour isn’t at its best, I know it’s time to take action.
Advice for Dealing with Stress
If you struggle with stress, take time to think about what influences your own ‘Personal Energy’. What are the things that gives you energy or takes it away? Have an open mind and a curiosity to learn about yourself. Take a deep breath, take a break and step away from technology. Get outside, move, walk, or just lie back and relax and focus on yourself.
Useful Links
Bupa’s Personal Energy Session
References
https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/stress