Work related stress is a common issue that affects employees across various industries and job roles. It occurs when the demands of the job exceed an individuals ability to cope, leading to feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and physical or emotional exhaustion. Factors like heavy workloads, tight deadlines, long hours, and lack of control over tasks can all contribute to stress in the workplace.
If left unmanaged, work-related stress can negatively impact both mental and physical health, leading to issues like burnout, anxiety, depression and reduced productivity.

The signs of work-related stress can vary but typically affect both the mind and body. Recognising these signs early is important to prevent long-term health issues. Common signs and symptoms include:

Emotional Symptoms
  • Irritabiltiy or Mood Swings - Becoming easily frustrated or angry.
  • Anxiety or Worry - Constant feelings of fear or dread about work tasks or responsibilities.
  • Low Motivation - Feeling unmotivated or uniterested in tasks that were previously engaging.
  • Feeling Overwhelmed - Struggling to keep up with tasks and feeling unable to cope with work demands.
  • Burnout - Emotional exhaustion and a sense of being mentally drained.
  • Headaches - Frequent tension headaches or migraines.
  • Fatigue - Constant tiredness, even after a full night's sleep.
  • Muscle Tension - Sore or tight muscles, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and back.
  • Sleep Problems - Difficult falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing poor-quality sleep.
  • Increased Heart Rate - Palpitations or rapid heartbeat.
Physical Symptoms
  • Headaches - Frequent tension headaches or migraines.
  • Fatigue - Constant tiredness, even after a full night's sleep.
  • Muscle Tension - Sore or tight muscles, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and back.
  • Sleep Problems - Difficult falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing poor-quality sleep.
  • Increased Heart Rate - Palpitations or rapid heartbeat.
Behavioral Symptoms
  • Reduced Productivity - Difficulty focusing or completing tasks efficiently.
  • Withdrawal from Social Interactions - Avoiding colleagues, isolating oneself, or feeling disconnected from work.
  • Increased Absenteeism - Frequently calling in sick or taking time off due to stress.
  • Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms - Increased use of alcohol, smoking, overeating, or other unhealthy habits to manage stress.
Treatment
  • Prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
  • Set boundaries between work and personal life.
  • Practice relaxation techniques or mindfulness
  • Communicate concerns with colleagues or managers.
  • Seek support from friends, family, or a professional

National supporting services

  • Employee Assistance programs (EAPS)
  • Occupational Health services
  • Mental Health helplines or hotlines
  • Workplace counselling services
  • Human Resources departments in companies
  • Mind
  • Qwell
  • The Samaritans
  • Anxiety UK

Local Supporting Services

  • Mind 
  • Qwell
  • The Samaritans
  • Anxiety UK
  • Middleton Womens Group (Each Wednesday 10- 12pm @ Alkrington Hub, Hardfield road, Middleton)

Page last reviewed: 21 October 2024
Next review due: 21 October 2025