Dangers Of Microstress In The Workplace

We all know about stress. Stress manifests in many ways, making you feel exhausted, anxious, uncertain, and even depressed. But what about microstress? What is it and how does it affect you?

Microstress refers to small, often unnoticed stresses that accumulate throughout daily life. Unlike major life stressors such as job loss or significant illness, microstresses are subtle, frequent, and can originate from routine interactions or situations. While seemingly minor, they can have a compounding effect on your emotional, mental, and even physical wellbeing over time.

When it comes to workers’ compensation, microstress is very common. Injured workers may feel overwhelmed as they try to recover from their injuries during the winter season. Adjusters may be on a time crunch as they work to prepare claims by the end of the quarter. Employers may also feel the pressure as they work to ensure employees get the time off they need during the winter while balancing workplace needs.

It’s no surprise that stress is a common issue in the workplace. By addressing it, it helps solve problems and make processes more efficient. With as many as 80% of doctor visits linked to stress-related issues, addressing microstress is a necessity. By reducing microstress, we can improve the well-being of all involved as well as reduce costs and improve outcomes. Here’s how to address and combat microstress.

Effects of Microstress

While each microstress may seem insignificant, the cumulative impact can lead to:

• Mental fatigue. You may have difficulty focusing or decision-making.
• Physical symptoms. You may experience tension headaches, poor sleep, or increased fatigue.
• Emotional strain. You may feel heightened irritability or feelings of overwhelm.
• Relationship strain. You may feel difficulty maintaining patience with loved ones.

Managing Microstress

To minimize the impact of microstress:

• Identify sources. Recognize recurring situations or interactions that drain you.
• Set boundaries. Learn to say no or delegate tasks where appropriate.
• Practice mindfulness. Use breathing exercises or meditation to stay centered.
• Prioritize self-care. Incorporate activities that recharge you, like exercise, hobbies, or downtime.
• Limit overcommitment. Be selective about what you take on to avoid unnecessary pressure.

What Employers Can Do

• Empower injured workers. Injured workers often feel powerless in the claims process, which can increase stress. Clear communication can make all the difference. Break down complex processes into simple steps. Use plain language to explain claim statuses, benefits, and next steps. Build trust by proactively checking in with injured workers. Offer a reliable point of contact.
• Encourage breaks and self-care. Workers need time to decompress and recharge. Support regular breaks and encourage participation in wellness programs. Also, provide access to mental health resources.
• Prioritize organizational culture. Build trust so employees feel safe voicing concerns. Use surveys to identify workplace stressors and take actionable steps to address them.

Contact Us for More Information About Workers’ Compensation Benefits

There’s stress and there’s microstress, but microstress should not be trivialized. It can slowly build up and cause burnout.

When employees struggle with their wellbeing, it can lead to fatigue, workplace accidents, and other issues. If you have been affected, get the help you need from a White Plains workers’ compensation lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon. Fill out the online form or call (914) 228-1770 to schedule a consultation today.

Source:

workerscompensation.com/daily-headlines/microstress-and-burnout-in-workers-compensation-breaking-the-cycle/