Created by Adele Mudgway Presented by Emma Nelson-White

What is stress?What causes workplace stress?Stress, how do you respond?Stress warning signs and symptomsStress Management strategiesHelpful Resources

Stress is a physical, mental and emotional response to events that make you feel threatened or out of balance in some way

Poor communication up and down the chain of command leads to decreased performance and increased stress. Lack of communication Failure to show appreciation for employee participation generates stress No appreciation Lack of focus causes additional uncertainty and lack of direction Unclear policies Interruptions keep employees from getting their work done – telephones, walk in visits, supervisors demands Random Interruptions Some employees are highly stressed because they have to many responsibilities. Excessive workloads

Psychologist Connie Lillas uses a driving analogy to describe the three most common ways people respond when they’re overwhelmed by stress: An angry response. Your heated, overly emotional and unable to sit still. Foot on the gas A withdrawn response. You shut down, space out and show little energy or emotion. Foot on the brake A tense response. You “freeze” under pressure and cant do anything. you look calm but are agitated. Foot on both

Cognitive Symptoms Memory problems Inability to concentrate Poor Judgement Constant Worrying Emotional Symptoms Moodiness Irritability or short temper Feeling Overwhelmed Depression or general unhappiness Physical Symptoms Aches and pains Diarrhea or constipation Nausea, dizziness Chest pain rapid heartbeat Behavioural symptoms Isolating yourself from others Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing) Sleeping too much or too little Procrastinating

1# Avoid unnecessary stress 2# Accept the things you cant change 3# Make time for fun and relaxation 4# Alter the situation 5# Adapt to the stressor

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