If you have ever been employed, you know that the work place can be one of the most stressful environments. There is always a nagging boss who doesn’t approve of anything you do or a colleague who is out to sabotage you. Whatever your case, work related stress affects millions of people all over the world and is actually one of the major causes of many stress related ailments. While you cannot control where you work, how you cope with the stress matters.
Tips on How to Cope With Work Related Stress
Identify The Tell Tale Signs: Sometimes we do not even realize that we are stressed unless someone points it out or you begin having conditions such as bruxism, insomnia, muscle tension, social withdrawal and headaches amongst others. It helps to recognize signs of stress early because the longer you let your job affect your mental health the worse it becomes and could blow into a full blown depression. [ Read: How Stress Affects Your Oral Health]
Take Charge Of The Situation: It is not always easy to avoid work related stress but you can take charge of the situation to
avoid further damage. If for example the reason why you gnash your teeth at night is because you are stressed at work or overwhelmed. You can ask for help instead of taking on everything yourself. You can also avoid getting into confrontations with colleagues or overly thinking about whether or not your boss will approve of the raise you so dearly require. Becoming a better organizer can also help you deal with the stress and also help you take control of your schedule. Relieving stress by taking up a pass time activity such as cooking or even a sport is a good idea.
Natural Stress Relievers
Besides the above tips that can help you cope with work related stress, there are things you can do that can help you calm down and avoid stress altogether. These are:
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- Exercise: Exercise is a good way to release the tension that has been building up all day. Most people shy away from working out after work because they see it as a physical activity. However, exercise does not need to be intense and a simple work or run could do. Exercise helps you clear your mind and release the tension that has built up.
- Music: Music is food for the soul. This sounds cliché but it’s actually true. Music has a calming effect and can help you getting into a peaceful space and let go of all the day’s events. You can listen to jazz, classical music or any soothing rhythms on your way to and from work.
- Laughter: Laughter is the best medicine. This is yet another cliché but true statement. Laughter helps stimulate air circulation and also helps relax muscles which can reduce your physical stress symptoms. Laughter is also a great way to increase your energy levels putting you in a better position to deal with work related stress.
