If you are in the workforce, this blog might be for you, as you probably have encountered some level of stress. While we all encounter stress from time to time, workplace stress feels different. It feels different because you typically spend anywhere from 30-40+ hours there each week, which is a huge portion of your precious, valuable time.
Since you probably spend most of your awake time (or a huge portion of it at work) why not make it healthy, safe, and as inviting as you can? Think to yourself, how is my current work environment and how does it benefit me? Is there anything that could be better? What changes could I make?
My list of methods of self-care at work that I encourage:
- Take a brief walk
- Go to the bathroom for a change of scenery
- Wash your hands for the temperature difference
- Step outside briefly if able to
- Listen to music/podcast if able to and not distracting
- Make tea or hot chocolate
- Bring a lunch
- Pack snacks
- Talk with a co-worker during a break for connectivity
- Mental health days when needed
How to better manage work stressors while at work and at home:
- Self-care (my favorite topic)
- Talk with your supervisor about EAP
- Talk with the supervisor about the workload and seek support
- Check in with yourself about how to manage and set a healthy work-life balance
- Complete training on stress management, time management, or work-life balance
Signs that you are leading to burnout in the workspace:
- Being cynical
- Being late for work often
- Calling out often
- Low mood, energy, or motivation
- Lower productivity
- Procrastination
- Tension and/or irritability
- Working long or shorter hours
- Taking longer or shorter breaks
- Lack of care
- Exhaustion
Helpful links:
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-deal-with-stress-at-work-3145273
Alexandria Henson, MA, LCPC, NCC