5 Ways to Manage Stress in the Workplace
- Insight Workplace Health
- Apr 11
- 4 min read
Stress is something many of us face in our professional lives.
In the workplace, stress can arise from a number of challenges. Whether it’s tight deadlines, growing workloads, or a lack of support, workplace stress can take a real toll on your well-being.
In this guide, we'll share 5 practical ways to manage stress in the workplace. Whether it's for yourself or your colleagues, these tips can help you create a mentally healthy work environment.
Key Takeaways
Stress at work often stems from high workloads, poor communication, or a lack of support. All are issues which can be addressed.
Clear boundaries, regular breaks, and healthy lifestyle habits are essential for managing workplace stress.
Both employees and employers have a role in creating a supportive, mentally healthy work environment.
Table of Contents
Managing Stress in the Workplace
Work-related stress is more than just a bad day. When stress becomes constant, it can affect mental and physical health, lead to burnout, and make it harder to stay motivated or engaged. The stress you are experiencing in the workplace can also impact your personal life, which can lead to even more issues.
Managing stress in the workplace means understanding the causes and putting solutions in place that support your employees. Businesses should be prioritising their employees' mental well-being, as it's just as important as their physical health.
The truth about stress management is that it isn’t just an individual issue. It’s a responsibility shared between staff and employers. By spotting early signs and creating a supportive environment, businesses can protect employee well-being.
Address Problems With Workload
One of the primary contributors to stress in the workplace is an overwhelming workload.
When employees are consistently given more tasks than they can handle, it can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and increased anxiety. To manage stress, workload issues need to be addressed early on.
Start by identifying if the workload is unmanageable or if there’s a need for better time management and prioritisation. If the issue lies with unrealistic expectations, a conversation needs to be had with management or HR.
By addressing workload problems and setting clear, achievable expectations, employees can work more efficiently and with less stress.
Create a Healthier Work-life Balance
Not maintaining a healthy work-life balance is one of the biggest contributors to stress in the workplace.
You deserve time to rest and recharge outside of work. A healthy work-life balance isn’t a luxury. This balance is essential for your well-being and can help you feel more focused and energised during the day.
Start by defining specific work hours and sticking to them. Avoid checking emails or taking work calls outside of these hours. Additionally, prioritise time for activities that help you relax and recharge, whether that’s exercise, spending time with family, or pursuing hobbies. You shouldn't be afraid to say no to extra tasks if they interfere with your time.
Focus on your time outside work just as much as at work. Take time to enjoy your interests and the relationships that are important to you.
Foster Two-way Communication
Two-way communication is the only way employees and colleagues will feel genuinely heard.
Feeling heard and supported at work makes a huge difference. Open, two-way communication builds trust, eases pressure, and helps everyone feel safer sharing what they need.
Regular check-ins with your team and manager also allow feedback and concerns to be shared. These sessions should be supportive and without fear of judgment.
Does There Feel Like a Lack of Support?
A lack of support in the workplace can significantly contribute to stress.
If you don't have the necessary resources or assistance to complete tasks effectively, then of course you will feel frustrated and burnt out.
If you’re feeling unsupported, you’re not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help. Speaking up isn’t always easy. Sharing how you feel with your manager or HR is a good first step towards finding the support you need.
Managers should also actively ensure their teams feel supported by providing regular guidance, offering help when needed, and ensuring workloads are manageable.
Encourage Positive Lifestyle Changes
Promoting and adopting healthy lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing stress.
When employees adopt healthier habits, they are better equipped to cope with daily pressures and maintain their well-being. Encouraging these changes can create a more resilient workforce and an overall healthier work environment.
Start by encouraging regular physical activity, whether through fitness challenges, lunchtime walks, or offering gym memberships. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood.
Mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can also help employees manage stress more effectively. Offering flexibility to attend wellness sessions or even organising stress management workshops can provide the tools needed to deal with workplace pressures.
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5 Ways to Manage Stress in the Workplace: FAQs
How do you manage stress and burnout at work?
To manage stress and prevent burnout, prioritise self-care through rest, exercise, and a balanced diet. Set clear boundaries between work and home life, delegate tasks when possible, and seek support from colleagues or professionals.
What are the signs of burnout?
Burnout can show up as constant tiredness, feeling disengaged from work, reduced performance, and physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues. You might also feel irritable or detached. Spotting these signs early makes it easier to recover and seek help if needed.
What do you do if your job is too stressful?
If work feels too stressful, try identifying the causes and speaking to your manager about realistic changes. Use stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, taking regular breaks, or exercising. If the pressure continues, professional support from occupational health or a counsellor can make a big difference.
Take the first step towards a healthier, happier workplace - contact us here or call us 01792 321010 for tailored support for your workforce.
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