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OH&S - Stress

Stress is the body's natural response to pressures or stressful situations we find ourselves in and which we are not certain we can cope with effectively. Situations that are unfamiliar, or challenge or threaten us increase our level of stress.

What can I do if I am feeling stressed?

  • Talk to your manager – if they don't know there is a problem they can't help.
  • Support your colleagues if they are experiencing work related stress.
  • Encourage them to talk to their manager or HR Consultant.
  • Try to channel your energy in to solving the problem.

What can you expect from your supervisor?

  • Treated stressed staff in the same way as those with a physical health problem.
  • Ask if there is anything they can do for you.
  • Advise you about sources of help within or outside the University
  • Review and if necessary modify your work tasks and responsibilities

Where Can I get more Help?
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) This program provides professional, confidential, voluntary and free counselling to employees with difficulties which affect work performance. For more details http://www.swin.edu.au/corporate/hr/eap/

As a Manager if an Employee complains about being under too much pressure, what can I do about it? 

  • Talk to your staff and try and establish the cause of the problems
  • Talk to your HR Consultant
  • If possible try and provide some scope for varying working condition and for people to influence the way their jobs are done. This will increase their interest in and sense of ownership of, their work.
  • Ensure that people are treated fairly and consistently in line with the policies and practices in area, bullying and harassment are not tolerated at work.
  • Ensure two-way communication especially at times of change.
  • Ensure that your staff has the skills, training and resources they need, so that they know what to do, are confident that they can do it and receive credit for doing it well.
  • If necessary, encourage them to seek further help though their doctor, health and safety representative, or employee assistance program.

How can a Manager use EAP ?
The Manager Hotline is an advisory service that assists managers and team leaders in managing situations such as:

  • An employee with problems impacting on work performance or behaviour
  • Interpersonal conflict
  • Assisting an employee not coping with change
  • Difficulties with team functioning
  • A distressed or troubled employee