What is work stress?
Most working adults occasionally experience work-related stress due to deadlines, performance expectations, and relationships with co-workers. But workplace stress that causes ongoing worry or anxiety lasting for weeks or months can have a negative impact on your emotional and physical health, and cause problems in your personal life.
If you feel unfairly treated at your job, overburdened with responsibilities, or concerned about job security, it can create a stress response in your body. That leads to elevated levels of cortisol and other hormones, and an increase in blood pressure. And work stress often interferes with your ability to eat healthily and exercise regularly.
All of this can eventually lead to more severe health complications.
When should I seek professional help for work stress?
If work-related stress feels like it’s overwhelming your life, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation with one of the highly skilled professionals at Thriving Center of Psychology. You should also consider mental health treatment if your work stress causes any of the following physical symptoms:
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Weight changes
Work stress can lead to a condition known as burnout. Burnout is characterized by emotional and physical exhaustion paired with an increasingly negative attitude toward life and regarding yourself and others.
Burnout is associated with an increased risk of depression. Both stress and depression can contribute to serious health conditions, including high cholesterol, hypertension, heart disease, and an increased chance of a heart attack.
How is work stress treated?
Work stress can have devastating effects, but it can be successfully treated by a qualified professional. When managing job-related stress, your practitioner atThriving Center of Psychology draws on many different mental health techniques to address your personal needs. Your individual treatment plan may include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
- Group therapy
- Neurofeedback (electroencephalographic or EEG biofeedback)
Your therapist or psychologist may also recommend couples therapy to address difficulties that arise in your personal life as a result of work stress.
For expert help with work stress, call Thriving Center of Psychology to schedule a consultation today or make an appointment online.
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