Safety Update

Safety Update: Stress Management

Over the past few months the economy has been the focus of all media outlets. Every day there are reports of layoffs and in the month of January, Statistics Canada reported 129,000 jobs were lost and more is expected.

Experts have stated that there is a correlation between acute financial strains and depression which too often is a precursor for substance abuse and suicide. More important than ever employers need to focus on the health and well-being of those they still employ.

Recently, the American Psychological Association (APA) held the Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards and recognized 5 organizations for their comprehensive efforts to promote health and well-being while enhancing organizational performance. The organizations all reported positive outcomes for employers and employees alike.

The APA press release states ""While there is no denying that the current economic downturn may necessitate some belt-tightening, employers should be careful not to secure this quarter's financial returns at the expense of employee well-being or the organization's long-term success," says David Ballard, PsyD, MBA, APA's assistant executive director for corporate relations and business strategy.

If your organization doesn't actively promote work-life-balance, here are some stress management techniques you employ in your day-to-day life.

Exercise

• Exercise will improve your health and can reduce stress caused by unfitness as well as relaxes tense muscles to help you sleep.
• There is good evidence that being physically fit results in less extreme physiological responses when under pressure. Fit people are better able to handle long term effects of stress and therefore less likely to burnout.

Relax

• Taking up a hobby or a non-competitive sport is a great way to reduce stress. The goal is to engage in something that is fun and enjoyable where there is no pressure for performance.
• Yoga and Tai Chi are both mental and physical activities aimed at relaxation.

Get Some Sleep

• On average people need 8 hours of sleep. This is difficult to achieve for most people, however you can try to be in a deep sleep for the hours you do get.
• Try to keep the same bed time every night so your mind and body gets use to a routine.
• Reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol to avoid restless sleeps and waking up during the night.
• Read something calm and undemanding before you sleep.
• Make notes of the things on your mind and address the items in the morning.
• A lack of sleep results in a lack of concentration and low energy which contributes to a decline in productivity.

Time Management and Organization

• Learning to prioritize your tasks and avoid over-commitment are critical measures to make sure you're not over scheduled.
• Your work environment should be organized and neat. Working at a desk that is cluttered can feel overwhelming.

If you're an employer who would like more information on the Psychologically Healthy Workplace program click here.

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