Stress Therapies in the Workplace

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses and considers the ever-current topic of stress. The writer looks at the effects of stress on certain aspects of the workplace and how complimentary therapies could be used, and are being considered as an effective method for treatment and prevention. The writer notes that the costs of stress, in terms of money and health in the UK and companies in general, is extremely high. The writer also points out how small steps towards combating stress using alternative therapies can be very effective. In comparison, the relatively small cost of alternative therapy treatments versus the huge cost of long term sickness, lost work days, prescription costs and general drainage on NHS resources makes prevention of stress, using alternative therapies, a worthwhile investment. The writer concludes that many more companies should be encouraged to make the most of effective stress prevention using alternative therapies as a means of caring for their workforce and helping the UK towards being a low-stress environment in which to work.

Outline:
Early Ideas of Stress
Stress and the Individual
Work Related Stress
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Kasl's theory also suggests that psychological strain results from the joint effect of the demands of a work situation and the range of decision-making discretions available to the worker facing those demands. This theory is also supported by Wallace et al in the finding that people working in high demand but low control positions report the highest frequency of stress symptoms and have the highest level of stress related illnesses. In support of this is a study reported by European Foundations for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions found, from a sample of 1600 Swedish men, 20% of them were experiencing heart disease symptoms, of these men all reported psychologically demanding jobs with a low degree of decision making latitude. By contrast, workers who reported low psychological demands and high levels of skill discretion had no symptoms of heart disease."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Aon Health Solutions award for managing health at work. (2003). Occupational Health journal. At www. PersonnelToday.com. 01 Dec 03
• Arnold, J, Cooper, C and Robertson, I (1995) Work Psychology, Understanding Human Behaviour in The Workplace, Pitman, London.
• Commercial Workers Union research department (CWU, 2004). At www.lancaster.cwu@btinternet.com
• Cooper G and Melnuish, MB (1984) Executive Stress and Health. Differences between men and women. Journal of Occupational Medicine, Vol 26, No 2, Feb 1984.
• Honervogt, T.1998. Reiki, Healing and Harmony through the hands. London, Gaia books Ltd.

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