No matter where you work, what you do, or how much you make, there will come a time when the job is stressful or mentally taxing. It’s quite normal to get overwhelmed when you’re up against a tight deadline, trying to impress a new client, dealing with a difficult customer, or overloaded with projects. Yet, when you find yourself stressed all the time, it can take a toll on you mentally.
When you’re under a great deal of stress, your body goes into fight or flight mode in which hormones like cortisol are increased causing a world of trouble both physically and mentally. Determining whether or not your job is harming you mentally, isn’t always easy. However, if you notice any of these signs listed below it’s time to talk to your employer and others for help:
Your Sleep is Off
If you’re suffering from chronic stress, depression, or anxiety, you may notice that your sleep patterns are off. Some people find that their minds are so inundated with work that they can’t get any rest at all. Others may notice that they’re sleeping more often which is due to the increased levels of cortisol and adrenaline.
Weight Trouble
Your job may be so stressful or emotionally overwhelming that it causes issues with your weight. When you’re stressed, eating might be the last thing on your mind causing you to eat less and lose weight. On the other hand, a challenging work environment can boost your stress hormones which automatically cause an increase in stubborn fat around the midsection.
You’re Self-Medicating
The stats on drug abuse show that those who suffer from mental illness often turn to drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications as a method of coping. As these substances have a “numbing” effect, they are taken as a way to get through the day or mask overwhelming emotions. If you’ve been drinking or abusing drugs before, during, or after work hours, this is a serious sign that you need to get help.
You Dread Going Into the Office
Most people dread the idea of having to get up and go to work, but if your emotions go beyond the norm, it could be signs of something more serious. Do you find yourself getting really depressed on Sundays? Do you ignore your alarm on Mondays? Do you show up late frequently? Are you anxious while at work? These are signs that you could be suffering from chronic stress, anxiety, or depression.
Your Performance is Failing
When you’re not well mentally, it can greatly affect your ability to perform at work and at home. If you’re missing deadlines, making careless mistakes, snapping at co-workers, and giving less than satisfactory customer service, you need to speak to someone about the stresses you’re having in the office. Continued poor performance will only add to your stress as your employer will likely implement disciplinary actions and your job could be on the line.
There’s no doubt that there are periods in which a job can become stressful. However, if you’re stressed more often than not, your job can start to harm your emotional well-being. When this happens, you might experience signs like those mentioned above. The only way to make things better is to express your concerns and get the help you need to reduce work stress.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
