EFFECTS OF STRESS IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT Today'

EFFECTS OF STRESS IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT

Today's business world is taking its toll on employees. Corporate takeovers create layoffs, and emphasis on productivity produces paranoia. With job security a thing of the past, it's little wonder that an ever growing number of employees suffer from stress. In an attempt to motivate their employees, companies are creating stressed individuals with psychological, physical, and behavioral problems.

Psychological problems induced by stress come in many forms. Anxiety is often one of the first symptoms to appear. The burdened individual feels unable to cope within his work environment. Even if he tries to hide his symptoms, he may find it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. Preoccupied with his problems, the individual is unable to relax, and soon becomes irritable. Consequently, psychological distress begins to interfere with productivity, learning, and interpersonal relationships.

Psychological burnout is a prevalent affliction among those working in stressful situations. A study of employees in 18 companies found that about 45 percent suffered from this malady. Employees listed at greatest risk were those in jobs lacking goals where there was little supervisory support and high pressure to produce. Whereas in the working situation of the past, physical injury was the chief danger to workers, now it is mental strain.

Long term stress can be particularly devastating. Those who undergo stress day in and day ou

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t of cortisol, a hormone produced by stress. While cortisol acts to aid in preparation for vigorous physical activity, it has deleterious effects, as well. The main function of cortisol is the breakdown of lean tissue. Increased levels of cortisol in the blood leads to higher amounts of fatty acids, increased gastric acidity, and ulcerations in the lining of the stomach due to increased acid formation: "Excesses of cortisol have led scientists to claim that man, once the victorious predator, is now preying upon himself" (Charlesworth 6). While large amounts of cortisol are harmful, small doses can be beneficial. Cortisol produces the adrenaline that can lead to a boost in productivity, and even creativity. As one doctor put it, "As a source of motivation, stress can spur us on to creative work and it can enrich our pleasurable activities" (Charlesworth 11). The down side, however, is that the adrenaline can quickly turn counterproductive. Subsequently, those companies who intentionally create a stressful climate for their employees, tread a fine line between getting an employee's adrenaline pumping and destroying his health. Not only does stress cause diseases, it aggravates those that already exist. Those who suffer

Category: Business - E