BAs the cost of living soars, many people are forced to take on extra jobs and responsibilities just to survive. Concerns about the climate and inflation have added to the daily stress of survival. But as much as the grind might be necessary, you need to slow down sometimes. You might not know when to take a break, but your body does, and it will communicate that to you through physical changes.
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Moreover, a recent study showed that work-related stress doesn't only impact individuals but also costs billions to the UK government each year.
Work-related stress costs £28bn a year
Recent research shows that work-related stress costs approximately £28bn a year in the UK. The British insurer Axa UK and the Centre for Economics and Business Research conveyed a study on over 30,000 adults in 16 countries, and found that the UK has got the highest work-related stress rate.
The study also revealed that half of the population in Britain is not in a positive state of mental wellbeing. Axa UK and Ireland chief executive told the PA News Agency:
if you have lots of people struggling, then it does not make sense economically – they are more likely to be off sick, they are less engaged, and they will move jobs.
Signs of work-related stress
Are you suffering from work-related stress? Here are some signs you should look out for.
Stomach pains
Stress weakens your immune system, so the more stressed you are, the more prone you are to illnesses. Unexplained gastronomical problems such as stomach and bowel pain, constipation, diarrhea and bloating could be due to that extra mental load you are carrying, according to WebMD. Loosen things up a bit and see if that tummy ache persists.
Read more:People pleasing: Stop doing these ‘nice' things at work
Headaches
Burnout is a type of work-related stress and the term was coined in 1974 by Herbert Freudenberger. He says that frequent headaches could be a sign of burnout.
A systematic review published in October 2017 found that burnout-related headaches are likely a result of psychological stress, EveryDayHealth wrote on its website.
Lack of sleep
Stress can have a serious impact on your sleeping habits. When you feel physically tired but are unable to sleep, you may be experiencing signs of burnout. And because your body is not getting the necessary amount of sleep it requires to function properly, you notice that you’re always tired. Take this as your body’s SOS call to you to reset your system.
Read more:Your sleeping habits have a lot to say about your health
Thirst and blurred vision
These are two signs of diabetes, meaning if you’re continually burnt out, your chances of getting type 2 diabetes increases. According to WebMD:
If you're showing these or other symptoms of diabetes -- and you're having problems at work that might be related to burnout -- the two might be tied. Let you doctor know if you are having any increased thirst and get medical help right away for any vision changes.
Read more:Here are some ways your body reacts to stress
Sources used:
Ada.com: Signs of burnout
Everydayhealth.com: 8 unusual signs of burnout
WebMD: Signs you’re burned out
The Argus: Work-related stress costs UK economy £28bn a year, research shows
