Stress is to blame for almost 40% of work-related illnesses and has remained a major problem across workforces for years. In fact, many cases have highlighted that even those in top management positions aren’t immune from the pressure of everyday working life and the stress that it can cause. Today, progressive organizations are coming up with proactive ways to encourage employee resilience to avoid stress and exhaustion; more workplaces are beginning to understand that mental health is just as important as physical health for wellbeing. So, what steps can you take to develop healthy coping strategies, whilst still utilising the positive elements of pressure in our careers?

Take Time for a Break:

Working hard can get great results, but failing to take breaks and look after your wellbeing can lead to the opposite effect. Working flat-out for hours will not only burn you out, it can also lead to heightened stress levels and even mental health problems if prolonged. So, make sure that you are taking time for proper breaks throughout the day. Sometimes, getting up and stretching your legs for just five or ten minutes can make all the difference when you’re working hard; you will return to your desk feeling more refreshed and ready to take on the remainder of your work.

Eat Well and Exercise:

There are several things that you can do outside of the workplace to help you feel better at work and better manage your stress levels. Exercising regularly is one of the best ways to manage stress in your life; exercising is essential for maintaining good levels of psychological wellbeing, as it helps to relieve additional energy built up by stress whilst releasing endorphins which helps to improve your mood. And, whilst working longer hours can increase the temptation to skip meals, making the effort to eat well can really make a difference. Cutting down on caffeine, remembering to eat breakfast and lunch, and eating low-sugar snacks are some of the best ways to keep your energy levels up and stress levels down in work.

Have Conversations:

If you are feeling particularly stressed out in work, remember that you are not alone. Having face-to-face conversations with your work colleagues and managers can help you resolve issues faster and come to agreements that work better for your wellbeing at work. And, encouraging face to face conversations can help to strengthen your rapport and relationships with colleagues, which can help when it comes to getting more of the support that you need. When you are in a particularly stressful situation, containing your emotions can actually be damaging to your mental health. Taking the time to have discussions with those around you will not only help you manage your stress, it can also encourage a more open and understanding culture within your workplace.

Take Time for Fun:

Last but not least, it’s important to understand just how vital it is to take time for fun and doing the things that you enjoy. Set aside time each week to spend on hobbies and activities that you like, and get involved in trying new things. If you don’t have much time for getting out and attending classes or playing with teams, for example, there are several things that you can do from the comfort of your home to wind down and relax. Read a good book, try cooking something new, teach yourself to draw or paint, play games and casino spins no deposit here, or set aside some time for watching your favourite movies or TV shows.

Working in a high stress career runs the risk of damaging your mental health. Share your best tips for stress management in the comments below!