Psychological hazards that lead to work-related stress are managed using the same risk management process applied to physical hazards. Safe Work Australia recommends a systematic approach to mental health and safety.
There are many coping strategies that you can adopt to prevent harm and support recovery from work-related stress. Not all strategies work well for everyone, so it is important to find and apply the strategies that work best for you. The following are examples of actions you may take to support recovery.
For yourself, you should:
- acknowledge how you are feeling
- alternate regular periods of exercise, sleep and relaxation
- eat well-balanced meals
- engage in social activities and positive thinking
- feel safe to talk about your feelings with people you trust
- focus on the present
- keep to a daily routine and regular schedule
- perform slow-breathing exercises
- spend time with your significant others.
For your team members, their friends and families, you should:
- ask what you can do to help
- be available to listen patiently and non-judgementally
- let them know you want to understand and that you do not take emotional outbursts personally
- reassure them that recovery is possible, and they can safely express their feelings with you.
The following are examples of actions you should avoid to support your recovery as well as prevent harm:
✖ DO NOT
- avoid your feelings
- compare your stress reactions to others
- increase amounts of alcohol, caffeine, sugar or other stimulants
- make big life changes or decisions
- take on too many responsibilities
- tell stories about other incidents.