Outcomes of work related stress
The effects of work-related stress can be considerable and long term. It can impact both individual workers and your business.
Possible individual health effects
Short-lived or infrequent exposure to low-level stressors are not likely to lead to harm. But when stressful situations continue or are regular and unmanaged your body stays in a constant state of stimulation. This is when stress occurs.
Some of the effects of work-related stress are:
Physical
- Headaches.
- Indigestion.
- Tiredness.
- Slow reactions.
- Shortness of breath.
Mental
- Difficulty in decision-making.
- Forgetfulness.
Emotional
- Irritability.
- Excessive worrying.
- Feeling of worthlessness.
- Anxiety.
- Defensiveness.
- Anger.
- Mood swings.
Behavioural
- Diminished performance.
- withdrawal behaviours.
- Impulsive or risky behaviour.
- Increase in alcohol and nicotine consumption.
Long term health issues
Common longer-term health issues linked to stress include:
- cardiovascular disease
- immune deficiency disorders
- gastrointestinal disorders
- psychiatric and/or psychological illness including depression, anxiety, suicide
- musculoskeletal disorders.
Possible effects on your organisation
Increased stress levels of workers in your organisation can mean:
- a reduction in productivity and efficiency
- a decline in job satisfaction, morale and cohesion
- increases in absenteeism and sick leave
- increases of staff turnover
- increases in accidents and injuries
- increases in workplace conflicts
- reductions in client satisfaction
- increases in health care expenditure and workers’ compensation claims.