Working women and stress

Stress happens when there’s an imbalance between the demands of a situation and a person’s resources for managing it

Women in particular face a unique set of challenges at work due to issues like childcare and interpersonal relationships.

Stress happens when there’s an imbalance between the demands of a situation and a person’s resources for managing it

Incorporate regular spurts of movement into your day, particularly if you spend most of your time sitting behind a desk. The exercise doesn’t need to be vigorous. Even short daytime walks are helpful. Use a fitness tracker or app on your phone to track your progress.

“The health effects of sleep are unbelievable. As a society, we haven’t given it enough priority,” Haythornthwaite says. Sleep boosts mood and helps us to deal with daily challenges more effectively. Wind down two hours prior to bed by stopping work, and avoid caffeine beginning in the late afternoon. Studies suggest that mobile phone use in adults can ruin your chances of getting a good night’s sleep. So shut off your devices in the evening and wake up at the same time each day to allow your body’s natural sleeping rhythm to express itself.

“Find time for pleasure and joy,” Haythornthwaite advises. Prioritize hobbies and do them on a regular basis, whether it’s family time or community activism. “Having purpose and meaning in your life is key to job satisfaction,” she says.

Treat your social network as a stress buffer that boosts health and longevity, Your group doesn’t have to be large, as long as it supports your sense of connection and shared experience. Friendship and connectedness are “critical to being able to cope with stressors,” she says.