Managing Midlife Work Stress
A recent study following over 6000 participants since birth has found that those reporting significant workplace stress at age 45 were more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with a psychological disorder by age 50 (when compared to their less stressed peers). Particularly vulnerable were those reporting significant workplace stress in addition to feeling that they had limited control over their work (being 89% more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder).
According to Worksafe QLD, workplace stress is the stress experienced when individuals experience a discord between their abilities and the demands of the role. Factors contributing to this discord may include but are not limited to:
Lack of job control
Demanding and unreasonable deadlines
Limited career progression
Poorly managed and ongoing organisational change
Significant workplace interpersonal conflict
Conflict between personal and organisational values
Low job security
Therefore, if you are in midlife and have been under significant workplace strain for some time, it is time to prioritise your health and make some changes. A good place to start, is to link in with your GP for a health check (both physical and mental). Additionally, some strategies and techniques include developing resilient stress management strategies and achieving greater work life balance.
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