Managing work pressures

Managing stress at work is important because it can contribute to the onset or worsening of symptoms of distress. It is important to monitor and manage your stress levels in life and at work. ANU offers wellbeing activities that help you maintain your psychological wellbeing and encourage work-life balance.

If you feel that you are not coping at work, it is a good idea to discuss your concerns with your manager.

Changes to your work environment

Simple changes to your work environment may help you manage your reaction to stresses better:

• revisit your workload - work with your manager to set priorities to your workload
• reduce time pressures - if there are no external deadlines to meet, discuss with your manager setting your own deadlines
• clarify your responsibilities - if there are any areas that are not essential to your role, discuss with your manager moving these lower down on the priority list
• access your personal support network - once they are aware of what you are experiencing, they will be in a better position to help you
• contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - they provide confidential short-term counselling and support that is free to ANU staff
• talk to your treating doctor - they can review your health status and identify treatment choices if needed.

Talking to someone about your feelings of stress is the most important step you can take in managing your stress.

If you have a pre-existing mental illness, managing stress at work is important. If not managed, it can contribute to the onset or worsening of symptoms.