HR Glossary for HR Professionals

Glossary of the most common HR terms and acronyms to assist professionals navigating the ever-growing and ever-changing world of HR terminology.

Occupational Stress

What is Occupational Stress?

Known as a major health hazard, occupation stress accounts for physical illness, substance abuse, and more. That is to say, occupational stress is brought on by stressful working conditions and is linked to low productivity, absenteeism, and accidents. 

For instance, when one can identify their stresses at work, they can respond to and eliminate the cause. However, when the source is not identifiable, it creates an unhealthy physiological reaction. 

Exposure to stress that continues without resolution can cause ill health and can sometimes lead to the breakdown of the body. Examples of job stressors include: 

  • Lack of control over their work
  • Lack of recognition
  • Discrimination
  • Forced overtime
  • Shift-work
  • Poor computer workstation
  • Lack of training

Handling Occupations Stress

HR departments can do their part in prevention amongst staff members by encouraging a more positive and proactive work environment. Certainly, it’s important to extinguish bullying, discrimination, and harassing workplace behaviors, and promote open-door policies so employees feel safe reporting these behaviors. 

In addition, employees can treat and ward off occupational stressors. Therefore, if one can maintain punctuality, time management, honesty, and discipline, upper management will be more likely to recognize and reward the work done. 

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