It’s not surprising that stress rates have gone up among healthcare workers in the last year since the COVID-19 pandemic began. What was already a high-stress job was suddenly put into overdrive as healthcare workers found themselves on the front lines. Every day can be stressful, regardless of where you work within healthcare. Here are common symptoms and conditions caused by stress and our recommendations for reducing stress both on and off the job.
Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Stress
It’s important to know what to look for when it comes to stress. Signs and symptoms include:
- Extreme irritability
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep problems
Stress can also impact your appetite and cause digestive problems and discomfort.
Stress-Based Health Conditions
Stress can also cause physical health conditions, and workplace stress is the leading cause of several of these. Health issues that can be caused or exacerbated by stress are:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer’s
Reducing Stress on the Job
Since knowing is half the battle, it’s also essential to understand how to reduce your stress on the job to prevent these significant impacts. At work, make daily, weekly, or monthly plans, so you manage your expectations. Try to avoid conflict in the office. Keep your workspace organized. Take regular breaks, and be sure to take your lunch hour away from your desk. You can also try mindful meditation and breathing techniques at your desk.
Reducing Stress at Home
You can also add other lifestyle changes to reduce your stress levels outside of the office. Focus on exercise. Exercise releases endorphins or the body’s feel-good hormones. Paying attention to your diet to eat more consciously and choose healthy meals and snacks. It can also help to keep a journal to express your feelings. And you don’t have to go through this alone. You can talk to your friends and family or consult with a professional counselor or therapist.
Are You Looking for a Healthcare Career With More Life Balance?
Call the recruiters at NRI Medical Staffing today, we are currently hiring healthcare professionals for many specialties.
