Stressed at Work? Here's What You Can Do

Stress is a topic that affects many of us daily.

From the time we wake up to when we go to bed, stress can be a major factor in our lives. While some stress is normal and even necessary, too much stress can have negative effects on our physical and mental health.

When it comes to work, stress can be especially debilitating. Not only can it affect our performance at work, but it can also lead to absenteeism, presenteeism (working while sick), and job turnover. Stress can also lead to health problems such as depression, anxiety, heart disease, and stroke. If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress at work, there are some things you can do to manage it better. Here are a few tips:

Talk to Your Boss

If you're feeling stressed at work, the first thing you should do is talk to your boss. It may be that your workload is just too much and your boss can help lighten the load. Or, it's possible that something is going on in the office that's causing stress and your boss may not even be aware of it. On the other hand, if your boss is the one causing the stress, you may need to have a more difficult conversation. But, it's always best to start with a discussion. Hopefully, you and your boss can work together to find a solution that works for both of you. If that's not possible, then you may need to look into other options.

Talk to HR

If you're not comfortable talking to your boss about the stress you're feeling, or if your boss is the one causing the stress, you may want to speak to someone in human resources. HR can be a great resource for dealing with stress at work. They can help you understand your rights and what options are available to you. Additionally, they can help mediate conversations between you and your boss, if necessary. And if the situation is serious, they can help you explore your options for filing a formal complaint.

You May Be Eligible for Workers' Compensation

If your stress at work is due to a physical or mental condition that has been caused by your job, you may be eligible for workers' compensation. This can be a complicated process, so it's best to speak with an attorney who specializes in workers' compensation cases. They will be able to help you determine if you have a case and, if so, how to proceed. In most cases filing for workers' compensation for stress include documenting your stress, getting a diagnosis from a doctor, and proving that your job was the cause of the stress. It may seem like a lot of work, but if you're successful, it can be well worth it. Just be sure to follow the instructions of your attorney carefully.

You Can File a Claim Against Your Employer

If you're not eligible for workers' compensation or if you're not satisfied with the outcome of your workers' compensation case, you may be able to file a claim against your employer. This is usually done in cases of workplace harassment or discrimination. If you believe you've been the victim of either of these, you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible. These types of cases can be complex, so it's important to have someone on your side who knows the ins and outs of the law. The best way to find a good attorney is to ask for recommendations from friends or family members, or even coworkers who have gone through something similar.

Find Support Outside of Work

If you're struggling to cope with stress at work, it's important to find support outside of the office. This can be from friends, family, or a support group for people who are dealing with stress. There may even be an employee assistance program through your job that can offer counseling and other resources. If you're feeling overwhelmed, you may need to see a therapist or counselor who can help you deal with the stress more holistically. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you're feeling stressed at work. It's nothing to be ashamed of and some people can help.

These are just a few of the options available to you if you're struggling with stress at work. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out for help. There are people and resources available to assist you. Remember, you have rights and options when it comes to dealing with stress at work. You don't have to suffer in silence.