Getting to grips with stress in the workplace : Strategies for promoting a healthier, more productive environment

Purpose – This paper aims to describes the causes of stress, how it is manifested in the workplace and strategies for reducing it. Design/methodology/approach – Explains what stress is, how to recognize it and how to incorporate programs in order to reduce its negative impact. Findings – Reveals that the main areas that influence the level of chronic stress felt in the workplace are perception of job demands, individual differences and social demands. Although stress management is often considered important by businesses, action is rarely taken until the damage has been done. Practical implications – Advances the view that management needs to carefully and regularly monitor stress levels in the workplace, identify what is causing unnecessary stress and implement policies and procedures that will help to both manage and reduce stress. Social implications – Claims that, while social demands can be psychologically distressing, social support from friends, colleagues and family tends to benefit psychological well‐being. Originality/value – Reveals how reducing stress in the workplace will contribute to the quality of work life and help to move the company forward.