Occupational stress is defined as psychological stress caused by one’s employment. Occupational stress is a long-term condition. It refers to the physical, emotional, and mental strain that people may feel as a result of their work or professional obligations. Occupational stress can be handled by identifying the stressful conditions at work and taking actions to improve them. It is a prevalent feature of today’s workplace and can be influenced by a variety of circumstances.
Occupational stress can occur when employees do not feel supported by their bosses or coworkers, believe they have little influence over the work they do, or believe their efforts on the job are insufficient in comparison to the job’s rewards.
Here are some key aspects of occupational stress:
- Workload: Workload overload, strict deadlines, and extended working hours can all add to stress. Being overwhelmed by the amount or complexity of duties can have a negative impact on one’s well-being.
- Job Demands: The nature of the job, such as the level of responsibility, the degree of control, and the amount of variation or repetitiveness, can all have an impact on stress levels. High-demand jobs with little control are frequently related with greater stress.
- Role Ambiguity: Stress might be exacerbated by uncertainty regarding employment tasks, expectations, or obligations. Employees who are unsure of what is expected of them may experience anxiety and tension.
- Interpersonal Relationships: Poor relationships with colleagues, supervisors, or subordinates can be a significant source of stress. Conflicts, lack of support, and difficult interpersonal dynamics can contribute to a stressful work environment.
- Organizational Culture: The culture of an organization, including its values, communication style, and support systems, can impact stress levels. A positive and supportive culture can buffer against stress, while a toxic or unsupportive culture may exacerbate it.
- Work-Life Balance: Difficulty balancing work responsibilities with personal and family life can lead to stress. A lack of time for relaxation and leisure can contribute to burnout.
- Job Insecurity: Concerns about job stability, layoffs, or an uncertain future can create significant stress. Employees who fear losing their jobs may experience heightened anxiety and stress.
Occupational stress is a source of concern for both employees and employers because stressful work environments have been linked to employees’ emotional well-being, physical health, and job performance. A study was undertaken by the World Health Organization and the International Labour Organization. The findings revealed that excessive working hours cause greater psychosocial occupational stress. According to these official estimates, it is the occupational risk factor with the highest attributable burden of illness, causing an estimated 745,000 workers to die from ischemic heart disease and stroke events in 2016.
