Stress/Anxiety

Effects:

Workplace stress and anxiety stem from high-pressure demands like heavy workloads and tight deadlines, a lack of control over job decisions, and poor social support from colleagues or management. Other factors include job insecurity, lack of growth opportunities, unsupportive work environments, conflict, and unclear role expectations.

Factors Related to Workload and Work Processes

• Heavy workload: Too many tasks or constant pressure to perform within short timelines can feel overwhelming.
• Tight deadlines: The pressure of meeting strict and unrealistic deadlines can lead to high stress and anxiety.
• Lack of control: Not having a say in how or when work is done, including minimal control over job-related decisions, causes frustration.
• Unclear expectations: When roles, responsibilities, and performance standards are not clearly defined, employees can feel confused and stressed.
• Work-life imbalance: Difficulty balancing work responsibilities with personal life can lead to significant stress.

Factors Related to the Work Environment and Relationships

• Lack of social support: Not having encouragement or support from managers and co-workers leaves employees feeling isolated.
• Poor relationships: Workplace bullying, harassment, conflict, or discrimination can create a toxic environment that increases stress.
• Inadequate resources: Not having the necessary tools, equipment, or proper training to do the job effectively contributes to stress.
• Poor physical environment: A workspace with inadequate lighting, poor ergonomics, or excessive noise can add to a worker’s stress.

Factors Related to Personal and Organizational Factors

• Job insecurity: Fear of losing one’s job, especially during organizational changes or restructuring, is a significant source of anxiety.
• Low recognition and reward: A lack of appreciation for one’s contributions or insufficient opportunities for skill development can be demotivating.
• Poor organizational change management: During times of change, insufficient communication, lack of support, or reduced choice can heighten employee stress.
• Demanding commutes: A long and stressful commute can impact an employee’s ability to relax and add to overall stress levels.

Effects

Workplace stress and anxiety negatively impact employees through reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and physical and mental health issues like headaches, cardiovascular problems, and burnout. These issues also affect organizations by lowering morale, increasing turnover, causing higher healthcare costs, and leading to more errors and accidents.

Effects on Employees

Mental & Emotional Health:

• Anxiety and depression
• Irritability, mood swings, and anger
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Feelings of being overwhelmed and a loss of interest in work
• Burnout and disengagement from work

Physical Health:

• Headaches and muscle tension
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia)
• Cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure
• A weakened immune system

Performance & Behavior:

• Decreased concentration and problem-solving skills
• Increased errors and poor decision-making
• Reduced job satisfaction and lower morale
• Poor relationships with colleagues and clients