How to reduce stress in the workplace

Stress can take a serious toll on anyone who has to much of it. This is especially true if there is a high level of stress in the workplace. Employees who work under constant stress can fid that they suffer from numerous health problems and other concerns. If you add in the fact that many people deal with added stress at home, this can then make a stressful workplace even more toxic. Because the overall health of employees can seriously affect the productivity of the workplace, savvy employers should do all they can to reduce the stress of the workplace, for their employees.Here is what you need to know about how to reduce stress in the workplace-

- Recognize the signs and symptoms of workplace stress-Savvy employers understand that when their employees are showing sign of being irritable, have a reduction in productivity, show anxiety, are experiencing fatigue, social withdrawal, headaches and may even be abusing drugs or alcohol, that they could be showing signs of workplace stress. These symptoms are the most noticeable results when employees are under to much stress.
- Identify the source of the stress-What is making the workplace stress occur? While some workplaces have an inherent amount of stress (hospitals, police stations etc.), other companies may experience periodic rises in stress. Employers should be aware of how much stress their employees are under. There could be a number of factors that are contributing to increased stress such as: a layoff, increased demands on your employees, an uncertain future of your business, or a project that must be completed by a certain deadline. Employees can also generate this stress either by placing high expectation on themselves, or feeling high expectations, from the management of the company. If you can figure out what is causing the stress, you can then try to treat it or at least reduce it. If you are seeing signs of stress among your employees, then meeting with them, can be a good way to open a dialogue about it. If you can get them to recognize the toll that the stress is taking on them, you are in a better position to help them learn how to deal with it or reduce it. Many times, employees who are suffering from stress only need a small break to readjust and recharge. A gym pass or a day off, can often go a long way toward helping your employees deal with the stress in their jobs.
- Change the company culture-Employers who have employees who are always under stress may find that they are spending a great deal of time, dealing with problems, recruiting and hiring new employees and fixing mistakes that happen because of the stress. These are all expensive tasks that any employer should work to avoid. If you can change the culture of your business in order to reduce or eliminate as much stress as possible, it can literally save you money. In addition, to the problems listed above, stressed employees tend to use more health insurance and take more sick time. Sometimes a few simple changes at work, can reduce stress dramatically. Employer can offer flexible schedules or even telecommuting where appropriate. This allows employees to deal with personal demands, without cutting into work time productivity. In addition, employers can offer classes that allow employees to learn about better ways to deal with stress. Onsite gyms or even gym passes to a nearby gym,will give employees a chance to work off stress and focus better at work. Acknowledging that their jobs are stressful and rewarding those employees who cope well regardless, can also be a great way toward helping employees cope with their stress.