Dealing with stress

    • Recognise the signs and symptoms
    • Work out what’s causing stress
    • Talk to people who can help, especially your manager, as there are different things they can do to support you at work.

    If you are suffering from some of the symptoms highlighted below it may indicate that you are feeling the effects of stress.

    If you find that work or aspects of your work bring on or make these symptoms worse, speak to your line manager, trade union representative or your HR department. It may be that some action taken at an early stage will ease the stress and reduce or stop the symptoms.

    If you need further help and support you may wish to explore counselling and seek advice from the OH Team.

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    Short Term Long Term
    • Tiredness
    • Headaches
    • Aching muscles
    • Fast breathing
    • Sweaty hands
    • Dry mouth
    • Frequent urination
    • Appetite increase or loss
    • Sleep disturbance
    • All over tension
    • Indigestion / ulcers
    • Poor circulation
    • High blood pressure
    • Heart disease
    • Unusual aggression / anger or irritability
    • Anxiety and depression
    • Concentration is affected
    • Difficulty in making decisions
    • Difficulty in relaxing
    • Loss of interest and apathy
    • Low self-esteem
    • Increase in accidents
    • Increased smoking or alcohol use
    • Reckless driving
    • Disputes and disaffection within the group
    • Increase in staff turnover
    • Increase in complaints and grievances
    • Increased sickness absence
    • Increased reports of stress
    • Difficulty in attracting new staff
    • Poor performance
    • Customer dissatisfaction or complaints

  • NB: Please note these are indicators of behaviour of those experiencing stress. They may also be indicative of other conditions. If you are concerned about yourself please seek advice from your GP. If you are concerned about a colleague try to convince them to see their GP.