#npw2014

by Nicole Russom

At cut-e, we are psychologists that specialise in psychometric and behavioural assessment, meaning that our practice is focused on psychology in the workplace and covers the so-called realm of ‘normal’ psychology, as opposed to ‘abnormal’ or clinical psychology.  That’s why this year’s theme for National Psychology Week (#NPW2014) particularly appeals to us - focusing on reducing stress and increasing wellbeing.  Running from the 9th - 15th November, National Psychology Week aims to “increase public awareness of how psychology can help people and communities lead healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.” This year’s focus is especially pertinent to the workplace which is where a lot of people experience stress.  Given how many hours the typical person spends at work each week, this is not surprising!

Indeed, compared with previous years, the APS Stress and Wellbeing in Australia survey found that Australians are experiencing lower job satisfaction and work life balance than previous years.  Furthermore, our reported stress levels have been higher during the past couple of years compared to 2012 and 2011, and more than 40% of respondents indicated that workplace issues were a source of stress for them.

If you stress a lot, it’s not something you just have to put up with.  The good news is that you can build your resilience to stress by using some simple techniques:

Take breaks - don’t have lunch at your desk. Get outside, take a walk.  A change of scenery and moving around (even inside if the weather is bad) can really help you to reenergise and refocus, possibly even get a different perspective on what you were stressing about.

Take time out for you – meditate, read, listen to music, whatever does it for you.  I have a long commute to work, so really enjoy reading on the train as a way to unwind after work.  Schedule your ‘me time’ if you need to!

Don’t bottle it up – talk about it with trusted colleagues, friends, family.  Having a good social support network is so important.  And don’t be afraid to ask for help.  You don’t have to be a superhero - you’re human just like the rest of us!

Try to see difficult events that could be stressful as challenges that will help you to develop and grow as a person and in your career.  Research has found that taking on a growth mindset in this way can help you to be more successful as well!

Challenge negative self talk.  Do you ever tell yourself: “I’m too busy,” “I can’t do this,” or “I can’t cope?”  What impact does that have on you?  Try instead: “I’ve done this before,” “It’s manageable,” or “I can cope.”

For more tips on managing stress, check out this infographic and our blog on making stress work for you.