Coping with Stress at Work in Changing Economic Conditions
It is hard to know what tomorrow brings. During the pandemic, the future feels even more unsure. If you, like many others, are struggling with the unknown about your employment and financial well-being, you may feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed. You may be tempted to use drugs or alcohol to help you cope, even though you know the risks.
Work-Related Stress
Instead of turning to substance use, consider a few helpful strategies for dealing with work-related stress in changing economic conditions.
Focus on Today
It is easy to find yourself worrying about tomorrow and months from now. Worry, though, is self-defeating. It does not help you to accomplish more or to solve the problem. It only makes today much harder to manage.
At work, focus on the day’s tasks with your full attention and energy. If you run out of tasks before the work day ends, make a plan for what you want to accomplish the next day or during the rest of the week. It never hurts to reorganize your workspace and files; doing so can help you feel like you have more control and better perspective about the past, present, and future.
Communicate Openly with Those in Charge
Communication can relieve stress for many people. Fostering a relationship with your boss can help you feel more willing to address tough questions. If your boss isn’t someone with whom you can have a strong relationship, you can still ask questions to get guidance.
For example, you may be able to ask about the ongoing availability of work. You may be able to ask questions about the health of the company – and perhaps what you can do better to support growth right now. By paying close attention to what’s happening and working to provide the best level of service you can, you make yourself valuable to the business.
Avoid the Conflict in the Office
One thing that most people have learned during the pandemic is that rumors and misinformation are worrisome and even deadly. In the office, conflicts and gossip can foster anxiety and worry, fueling work-related stress. You may be unsure what to think about the company or your position within it.
To deal with this anxiety, you can simply avoid conflict communications and relationships. You can also distance yourself from others physically to reduce the risk of having to engage with them. Or, you can take an active role in changing the topic and promoting positive interactions. It’s often wise to reach out to the source of information to determine the truth rather than relying on hearsay.
Know When You Need Help with Stress
It may seem logical to use stress-reduction methods like these during the workday. But if your stress is too high, you may be unable to stop worrying even when logic tells you that everything is okay right now.
The pandemic can bring on the symptoms of anxiety and depression. For some, the current situation can dredge up past pain and fears. These things can make dealing with daily life very difficult to do no matter how much you try.
If you find that you want to turn to drug and alcohol use, perhaps including overuse of prescription medications, to deal with your stress, now may be the right time to get help. Taking a break from work and stepping into a treatment program – utilizing your Family Medical Leave Act rights – may help you preserve your job while also safeguarding your mental and physical health. If you are in this position now, reach out to our team for immediate help. Our drug and alcohol treatment program in Lafayette, LA, is available to you today.
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