Stress Less

Causes of Stress

What are some of the causes of chronic stress?

Health problems, if you have a chronic illness such as heart disease, diabetes or arthritis.
Emotional problems, such as unexpressed or uncontrolled anger, depression, grief, guilt, or low self-esteem.
Family or relationship problems, if you do not have someone to share your feelings with, are having difficulty in a relationship, or feel that you have few friends.
Your surroundings, if you live in a dangerous or uncomfortable area where overcrowding, crime, pollution, or noise is a problem.
Your job, if you are unhappy with your work or your work is dangerous or too demanding.
Your social situation, such as loneliness, or discrimination based on race, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
Conflicts with your belief system - your perceptions and beliefs about the world, life, and yourself. For instance, if you place a high value on family life but don't have the family life you want, you may feel stress.
Caring for a family member who is elderly, has chronic health problems, or is disabled.

Stress in the workplace

Studies show that job stress is the major source of stress for most Americans. Job stress can be defined as the harmful physical and emotional responses that occur when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker.

The major source of job stress falls in seven different categories:

Control. This factor is the most closely related to job stress. Studies show that workers who believe that they have a great deal of responsibility but no control or decision-making power in their jobs are at increased risk for experiencing job stress. Workers who have a feeling that they are not in control; that they have lost control or that there is nothing they can do about a frustrating situation ar at greatest risk for job stress.
Competence. Are you concerned about your ability to perform well? Are you challenged enough, but not too much? Do you feel secure in your job? Job insecurity is a major source of stress for many people.
Clarity. Feeling uncertain about your job security, what your duties are, how they may be changing, or what your department's or organization's future goals are can lead to stress.
Communication. Workplace tension often results from poor communication with employees and management, which in turn increases job stress. An inability to express your concerns, frustrations, or other emotions can also lead to increased stress.
Support. Feeling unsupported by your coworkers or manager may make it harder to resolve other problems at work that are causing you stress.
Significance. If you don't find your job meaningful or take pride in it, you may find it stressful. Or, if your manager doesn't show that they value your work.
Increased responsibilities. Assuming additional responsibilities in your job can be stressful.

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	Updated: April 27, 2007