Managing Work-Related Stress

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 65% of surveyed U.S. workers report that work is a significant source of their daily stress. There are many reasons why this may be the case, including higher costs of living, conflicts between coworkers and/or management, and the impact this has on other general life stressors.

This combined with an incredibly competitive and complex job market means that many feel that it is increasingly difficult to leave positions that they have, even if it has a negative impact on a person’s mental welfare. They are concerned they won’t be able to find another job, and sacrifice their mental health needs for a relative amount of stability.

Regardless whether you have committed to your current position and intend to do your best to make it better or you have one foot out the door, coping strategies could be helpful for you. Here are a few we recommend:

Using the Spheres of Control

The spheres of control are used to identify what aspects of our lives we have control over, what aspects we can influence, and what we have no control of. By recognizing and naming what we do and do not have control over, it can be incredibly helpful to focus your attention on what is within your control (rather than what is not). For example, you may be able to control how you act and behave at work, but you are not in control of other people’s mistakes. Spending what little energy you have trying to control other’s mistakes will likely be ineffective.

Consideration of Personal Values

There is a reason why people work. It could be because you genuinely care about the job you are doing and do enjoy many aspects of it, or it might simply be to make ends meet and provide for your family. Directing your attention to the why you are doing your work even when things are difficult can make it both easier and more rewarding. The Simpsons shows this effectively in one episode, where Homer covers up a sign at his work saying “Don’t Forget, You’re Here Forever” with photos of his daughter, so it instead reads “Do it for her.”

Consistency in Mental Health Treatment

Oftentimes when work stress increases, people may cancel scheduled therapy sessions or cease attending therapy altogether. This is understandable–many aspects of therapy require hard work and significant commitment, and it can be stressful to think of showing up to a session before or after a long workday. However, therapists just want to do our best to support you. If it would be easier to shift attention to focusing on work stress or changing the frequency/timing of sessions, you are welcome to communicate that so we can work together to meet your needs.

If you are seeking a therapist, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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