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Work-related stress is recognized as a major issue on an international scale, impacting both company performance and employee health.

Employers have the responsibility to prevent and manage psychosocial risks, including chronic stress. This approach involves implementing appropriate internal processes, as well as training and informing managers and teams to better identify and quickly respond to stressful situations.” – Aurélie Nusbaum-de Francesco

What is stress management at work?

Professional stress, when occasional, can be stimulating, but when it becomes chronic, it poses a serious threat to individual well-being.

It often arises when there is a perceived gap between professional demands and a person’s ability to meet them. This gap can generate intense emotions such as anxiety, fear, or a sense of discomfort.

Work-related stress is generally caused by:

  • Work overload or poorly defined objectives;
  • Lack of clarity in roles and responsibilities;
  • Disagreements or conflicts, ineffective communication, or an unsuitable work environment.

It is crucial to distinguish between occasional stress, which is often normal and manageable, and chronic stress, which can severely affect health.

The impact of stress on mental and physical well-being

Chronic work stress can have detrimental effects on the overall health of employees, placing them in a vicious cycle harmful to their balance.

Signs of chronic stress include:

Intellectual

concentration problems, frequent forgetfulness, repeated mistakes

Emotional

irritability, anxiety, persistent discomfort

Physical

sleep disorders, panic attacks, exhaustion, muscle pain

For managers, it may be difficult to detect these situations, but indicators such as a sudden drop in performance, increased absenteeism, or a change in attitude should alert them.

Without appropriate measures, stress can develop into burnout, often leading to prolonged work stoppages.

Techniques to better manage stress and emotions

Once symptoms are identified, it is essential to act quickly on both the stress factors and the symptoms themselves.

Key strategies to try to reduce stress:

1. Consult a professional

a doctor, a trusted person, or a coach can offer personalized advice

2. Practice relaxation exercises

conscious breathing techniques, mindfulness meditation to soothe the body and mind

3. Analyze the causes

identify triggering factors and discuss them with management to find suitable solutions

4. Adopt healthy habits

prioritize a balanced diet, restorative sleep, and regular physical activity

5. Encourage open communication

share difficulties and questions with colleagues and/or managers to better collaborate

These techniques, combined with professional support, can help sustainably reduce the impact of stress on the overall well-being of employees.

The key role of a person of trust in stress management

The Person of Trust within the company plays a crucial role in supporting employees experiencing stress. Trained in coaching and psychosocial risk management, they offer professional support, in complete confidentiality and independence, promoting better management of difficult situations.

Through their expertise, they can:

  • Propose personalized strategies to help reduce anxiety;
  • Facilitate communication with managers and human resources;
  • Contribute to implementing concrete measures to prevent symptom aggravation.

The systemic approach, like that of Palo Alto, is particularly effective in understanding and resolving complex work-related stress situations.

Implement a work atmosphere without excessive stress

A serene work atmosphere is essential to preserve employee health and ensure company performance. Here are some essential actions to reduce excessive stress within organizations:

  • Train managers to detect warning signs and adopt appropriate human resources and performance management practices;
  • Clarify roles and objectives: ensure expectations are well-defined and achievable;
  • Encourage a culture of listening and respectful communication to strengthen team cohesion;
  • Set up trained internal resources to offer quick and suitable support to concerned employees.

Prevention and rapid intervention help avoid serious consequences such as prolonged sick leaves or characterized burnouts.

Professional stress can affect any of us, but it is possible to understand and manage it to regain lasting serenity at work.

Please feel free to contact Aurélie Nusbaum-de Francesco for support in managing stressful situations or to assist your organization in developing effective psychosocial risk prevention processes.

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