If people do not recognise how to manage their stress it will build up and may result in them having a fight or flight reaction resulting in inappropriate behaviour and being unable to cope with the situation.

As well as knowing how to manage your own stress it is necessary first and foremost to prevent it from developing. It is prevented by flagging it up early and by the employer recognising his/her responsibilities towards their employee.

We all deal with and respond to ‘stressors’ in very different ways and our reactions and strategies for responding to them will vary greatly.

People need a personalised approach to managing their own stress. The list shown below are some of the ways that people can manage their stress healthily:

Managing Stress in the Workplace

• Time and task management – Balancing hands-on work with administrative duties.
• Flagging up concerns through a manager if unrealistic demands are being made
• Discussing what may be affecting their work with their manager, e.g. if under stress at home through bereavement, divorce, moving house and if factors in their life might affect their performance in a particular task e.g. abuse in childhood
• Flagging up where bullying may be taking place
• Addressing their work-life balance. E.g. taking their time off and annual leave when they should
• Not accumulating too much time in lieu
• Avoiding committing themselves to overtime
• Taking time out/away from stressful situation e.g. retreating to another room or taking a break

Strategies for Individuals to help manage or reduce stress are:

• Taking more exercise or going out for a walk
• Taking time out for yourself
• Doing something you enjoy, for example pursuing a hobby or sport, reading, art etc.
• Taking a deep breath
• Counting down slowly in your head
• Removing yourself from a situation and taking time out
• Talking through how you feel with your line manager or another person
• Attending any stress management course or workshops available
• Engaging in relaxing activities whilst away from work
• Looking at your diet and substance intake, for example caffeine, and managing a sensible intake
• Undertaking self awareness activities
• Talking through your stresses with a counsellor
• Talking to a human resources advisor or occupational health advisor (if available in your organisation)
• Meditation or religious observance

If someone (a client or member of staff) feels suicidal or expresses suicidal thoughts for any reason this must always be taken seriously (even if they frequently do so). It must be flagged up immediately to your line manager and the relevant procedures should be followed.

Think about the events and situations that tend to cause you to feel stressed. It is very important to be aware of these so that you can develop positive ways of coping and managing stress. Managing stress well will reduce the negative effects on others including the individuals you care for, your colleagues, family and friends.

Use to answer question 13.9c of the Care Certificate