Question

Stress is a constant aspect of the modern work environment. There are various methods for dealing with stressful situations but consider this question: who is responsible for dealing with employee stress, is it the employee or the organization? In your initial discussion post, answer the question of responsibility and provide an argument that supports your answer. In addition, describe two methods for an individual to deal with their own stress and two ways an organization to lower the stress of their employees. Your answer should be more than 200 words

Answer 1

Indeed stress is a constant aspect of the modern work environment due to the increased sense of competition that employees undergo. The responsibility of dealing with stress at the workplace need not necessarily be on one employee or team in terms of the HR department, but the onus must be on various stakeholders at each level of management. Regular intrevention in terms taking preventive measures to ensure mental health must be provided. This can be done through workshops, seminars and awareness programs. The onus essentially lies both on an individual as well as organizational level. This means that in case an 'at risk' person is identified, they must be referred for the appropriate intervention without delay and on the other hand the organization must accept the onus for overall well-being of each individual, rather than merely the organizational goals. This shift of attitude would need extensive work by mental health professionals who could be hired as a resource person for the organization. Two methods of dealing with stress on individual level are engaging in recreational activities, which can also be facilitated in a group in case of organizations. These activities could range from music to dance to art or any kind of sport. Bringing variation and making sessions interactive and cathartic are key to ensuring satisfaction in a group that may vary in very many ways. Another method could be engaging in meditation and physical exercise to lower the level of cortisol released in one's bpdy and rather engage in the release of happy hormones. Keeping sessions wherein employees engage in sharing of experiences, reflections, observations and feelings is a pre-requisite to healthy bonding and inter-connections.