The number of issues that rise in the workplace can be part of an endless list. Whether it involve the organization, the employees or leadership is irrelevant as there are many disruptions to effect each of these subjects equally. All of which could contribute to the amount of success that an organization is capable of achieving (or lack thereof). Stress is one of those my factors that can have an adverse effect on the workplace, as well as those within it. To take it one step further, there is something known as microstress.
Microstress is a term used to describe the chronic, low-level stress that people experience on a daily basis. It is the type of stress that arises from the daily demands of life, such as work, relationships, financial pressures, and other everyday stressors. Unlike acute stress, which is a short-term response to a specific event, microstress is ongoing and cumulative. It can have a negative impact on physical and mental health over time. Managing microstress through stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and self-care can help prevent it from becoming chronic and leading to more serious health problems.
Stress or Microstress?
Stress and microstress are both types of stress that causes you to release cortisol within your body. But they differ in terms of their duration, intensity, and frequency.
Stress is a physiological and psychological response to a perceived threat, challenge, or demand. It can be acute, meaning it is a short-term response to a specific event, or chronic, meaning it is ongoing and long-lasting. Acute stress can be beneficial in helping us respond to a threat or challenge, while chronic stress can lead to negative health effects, such as anxiety, depression, and heart disease.
Think:
- Preparing for an important work presentation or school exam
- Dealing with a major life change, such as a divorce, marriage, or death in the family
- Responding to a sudden emergency, such as a car accident or natural disaster
- Being faced with a high-pressure deadline at work
Microstress, on the other hand, refers to chronic, low-level stress that arises from the daily demands of life, such as work, relationships, financial pressures, and other everyday stressors. It is ongoing and cumulative and can result in negative health effects over time. Unlike acute stress, which is often triggered by a specific event, microstress can be caused by a variety of daily stressors, such as traffic, noise pollution, social media notifications, multitasking, and deadlines.
Think:
- Sitting in traffic during your daily commute to the office
- Juggling multiple tasks such as deadlines at work
- Constantly checking and responding to emails or messages
- Dealing with noise pollution from neighbors or construction activity
- Managing financial pressures, such as paying bills or managing debt
- Balancing work and family responsibilities
The Effect on Business
Microstress can have a significant impact on an organization and its employees. When employees microstress, it can lead to decreased job satisfaction, lower employee morale, and reduced productivity. This can result in decreased engagement, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates. These can all affect the bottom line of the business.
Additionally, microstress can contribute to a negative work environment, which can further exacerbate the problem. Stressed and microstressed employees are less likely to effectively communicate with one another, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. This can create a toxic work culture that can be difficult to overcome.
Mitigating Microstressors in the Workplace
When it comes to mitigating stress and microstress, there are a few ways that can be utilized which will assist your organization. Here are a few ways in which your organization will excel through the microstress.
- Promote a positive work environment.
- Provide resources for stress management.
- Promote a healthy work-life employee balance.
- Manage workload effectively and efficiently.
- Create a comfortable and welcoming physical environment
The Effects of Microstress on the Work Environment
Microstress can have a negative effect on the work environment through a variety of ways. All of which can prove to be detrimental to the workplace and those in it. Microstress can lead to distraction, fatigue, and decreased motivation, which can result in reduced productivity and efficiency in the workplace. When employees experience high levels of microstress, they may be more likely to call in sick or take time off work, which can result in increased absenteeism and decreased workplace morale.
Employees who experience chronic microstress may be more likely to seek out employment opportunities elsewhere, leading to higher turnover rates and increased costs associated with recruiting and training new employees. Additionally, this can lead to decreased job satisfaction and morale, which can contribute to a negative work environment and lead to increased stress and burnout among employees. Microstressed employees are less likely to communicate in an effective manner or collaborate effectively. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and further reduction in productivity.
The Effects on Personal and Professional Lives
Microstress can have effects on both personal and professional lives. The low-level stress can prove to effect employees physical and mental health. This can result in a lasting impact on both employees personal and professional lives. In terms of personal lives, this can include the relationships held with others, leisure activity, physical and mental health, and an overall well-being. In terms of professional lives, it can decrease overall productivity, increase the amount of absenteeism, and cause higher turnover rates. Additionally, it can contribute to a negative work environment and a lack of motivation among employees. This can lead to a toxic environment for everyone involved.
Stress and microstress are both a natural element of life, work, and everything in between. Not all stress is chronic, long-lasting, or bad. In fact, a small level of stress can serve as motivation to help employees to perform better. However, it can prove harmful if it comes in chronic amounts. This can prevent your personal and professional lives from being healthy and balanced. A healthy work-life balance is essential to navigate this issue.
Employers have the ability to promote a healthy work-life balance by providing resources to employees for stress management. To name a few:
- Flexible work arrangements such as telecommuting or flexible working hours.
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) such as confidential counseling and employee support services to aid families.
- Wellness programs that focus on physical and mental health and wellbeing.
- Time off incentives such as generous vacation and sick time policies.
- Supportive management which is the supportive nature that employers provide as an effort to be supportive and understanding.
- Employee feedback mechanisms which allow employees to communicate their needs and concerns.
Employees can also take steps to manage their own stress, such as practicing mindfulness, getting regular exercise, and seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals.
Risks of Microstressors to Your Physical Health
Microstress can cause great issues to arise, outside of the workplace. These issues come in the form of your physical and mental health. The effects can be detrimental if not handled in an efficient manner. The negative physical health issues that can rise include, but are not limited to:
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Weakened immune system: Stress can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Digestive problems: Stress can cause digestive issues such as stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
Muscle tension and pain: Chronic stress can cause tension in the muscles, which can lead to headaches, neck pain, and other types of muscle pain.
Sleep problems: Stress can interfere with sleep, leading to insomnia or other sleep disorders.
Weight gain: Chronic stress can lead to weight gain, especially around the abdominal area, which can increase the risk of health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.
The effects of stress on your physical health can vary from person to person. Some people may be more susceptible to health problems or conditions more than others. In general, it is ideal to maintain good physical health. Such things such as a healthy sleep routine, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques (meditation or yoga) can aid in maintaining a good physical health.
Closing Thoughts
In closing, microstress can have a significant impact on the well-being and productivity put forth by employees, as well as the overall success of the workplace. Employers who prioritize the mental and physical health of their employees by offering resources for stress management and promoting a healthy work-life balance, This can decrease the effects of microstress and aid in a more positive work environment; all of which begins by recognizing microstress and taking proactive steps to prevent it from effective your work environment.
