Understanding and Managing Workplace Stress

Understanding and Managing Workplace Stress

In today’s fast-paced world, workplace stress has become an all-too-common experience. Whether it’s the pressure to meet deadlines, high workloads, or challenges with work-life balance, stress at work can have a serious impact on both our mental and physical wellbeing.

While some stress can motivate us to perform and grow, ongoing or excessive stress can lead to burnout, fatigue, and even long-term health problems. Understanding the causes — and learning how to manage them — is key to maintaining a healthy relationship with work.

Common Causes of Workplace Stress

Workplace stress can look different for everyone, but there are a few common triggers that many people experience:

• Heavy workloads and unrealistic expectations

• Lack of control over tasks or decisions

• Poor communication within teams or management

• Job insecurity or unclear role expectations

• Workplace conflict or difficult team dynamics

• Limited support or recognition

  
  

When these stressors build up, they can start to affect not only job performance but also our mood, sleep, and relationships outside of work.

The Signs You Might Be Experiencing Stress

Recognising the early signs of workplace stress can help you take action before burnout sets in. You might notice:

• Feeling constantly tired or run down

• Trouble concentrating or making decisions

• Irritability, frustration, or low mood

• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach issues, or muscle tension

• Difficulty sleeping or switching off after work

  
  

These signs shouldn’t be ignored — they’re cues that your mind and body need care and attention.

Practical Ways to Manage Workplace Stress

While some work pressures are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to protect your mental health:

1. Set healthy boundaries – know when to switch off from emails and work tasks.

2. Prioritise breaks – short, regular pauses throughout the day help your brain reset.

3. Communicate openly – speak with your manager or HR if workloads feel unmanageable.

4. Seek connection – having supportive colleagues can make a big difference.

5. Practice mindfulness or relaxation – even a few minutes of deep breathing or meditation can reduce stress levels.

6. Reach out for support – professional counselling or Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) can provide confidential help and practical strategies.

   
   

A Healthy Workplace Starts with Awareness

Managing stress isn’t just a personal responsibility — it’s a shared one. Workplaces that value mental health, encourage open communication, and support balance help their teams thrive.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed at work, know that you’re not alone. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness — and small changes can make a big difference to your wellbeing.

Need support with workplace wellbeing? As a mental health professional and guest speaker, I offer workplace wellness programs, stress management workshops, and tailored talks to help organisations build healthier, happier teams.

📩 Get in touch to book a session or learn more about workplace wellbeing support.