Why you should not die of stress at workplace

Highlights

• Stress can lead to reduced productivity at workplaces
• A mentally healthy workplace fosters happier, more engaged, and productive employees

By Drileba Dratibi Daniel

In today’s fast-paced world, where deadlines, targets, workload as well as poor working conditions seem to dominate the lives of workers.

As a result, mental health is increasingly becoming a concern. In Uganda, as well as globally, the pressures of work have contributed to rising levels of stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and other mental health challenges.

It is for this reason that Voice of Restoration International (VRI) has taken the lead in facilitating sessions and workshops aimed at transforming workplaces into spaces that prioritize mental health and well-being of the staff.

“Workers suffering from Stress, Anxiety, burnout, depression, lack of support, family and relationship issues, bullying and harassment, financial crisis and other challenges are less productive, have more sick days.”

And often leading to reduced productivity, high turnover rates and absenteeism, decreased morale and engagement, legal and financial repercussions, and negative impact on physical and mental health.

On the other hand, when staff are engaged with mental health and psychosocial support programs, they build resilience, improve performance and realize their potential. A mentally healthy workplace fosters happier, more engaged, and productive employees.

Editor: You can cope with work stress through these strategies;

Relaxation: This helps to counter the physchological effects by closing your eyes while seated. Working from your legs upward and systematically relax the muscles.

Mindfulness: Pay attention to curiosity, openness and acceptance. Stress can be dangerous when you think about the past, worrying about the future and engaging in self-criticisim. Therefore, train the brain to break these harmful habits through a guided meditation.

Problem solving: This includes brainstorming potential solutions, develop action plans and testing the chosen solution.

The Writer is a Mental Health Specialist

Tel: +256774805028