Tool box talk Stress in the Workplace

1. Tool box talk Stress in the Workplace • What is stress? • What causes it and what are the signs? • How can it affect your health? • How do we deal with it?

2. Stress – what is it? A complex area of medicine and psychology “The reaction that people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed upon them. It arises when they worry that they can’t cope”. * Source – HSE Mental well-being in the work-place

3. Stress – what causes it? • Seldom one cause – a number of contributory factors however workplace causes include: • Time pressures/deadlines • Work overload • Threat of job losses • Lack of consultation or communication • Under staffing • Lack of security – feeling undervalued * Source – Research by Cooper/TUC (Arnold).

4. What are the early signs of stress? Physical Effects Behavioural Effects • Headaches and increased heart rate • Indigestion and skin conditions • Lowered resistance to infection • Insomnia/disturbed sleep • Lack of concentration • Verbal or physical • aggression • Increased anxiety and • irritability • Changes in appetite

5. How can this damage your health? • Mental health problems including depression, nervous breakdowns, anxiety or panic attacks • Alcohol or drug abuse leading to damaged internal organs • Indirectly cause accidents through poor concentration • Lack of sleep leading to variety of later life health problems

6. How can we manage the risks? • Look out for symptoms and be understanding of anyone who may be “under stress” • Tackle any symptoms early - if you believe that you are suffering from stress report this to your manager and seek professional help • Be aware of the possible effects of conflict situations, changes in workload/environment • Communicate openly and clearly

7. Tool Box Talk Any Questions ?