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Prevent stress at work - teach your employees to say no

Published by
d. November 7, 2022
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Most people in the labor market have probably experienced some kind of pressure or stress at different times at work, which can be caused by, among other things, wanting to be flexible, going the extra mile and therefore juggling several different tasks at the same time.

It can also have consequences. If you want to improve employees' mental health - including preventing stress and depression, for example - it may be a good idea to say no in some cases. However, not everyone 'dares' or feels that they can afford to say no to extra tasks. This also has relevance to workplace culture. Therefore, it should become a culture in companies that it is ok to say no in times of pressure. This can improve employees' mental health by not feeling pressured. This can also reduce sickness and absenteeism and therefore benefit both the employee and the company.

Research shows that there is a link between increased periods of stressful, multi-tasking in the workplace and an increased risk of early illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and other health problems. In addition to cardiovascular disease, more and more people are affected by stress, depression, body aches and pains, with back pain and stress being particularly common.

Figures show that there has been an increase in the proportion of people with high levels of stress, which is a burden not only on the individual, but also on the workplace and society, which is affected by more sick leave, resulting in more costs and reducing the efficiency of work tasks. Therefore, it is important, not least, that you yourself are aware of your own mental health and your own limits, but that you as a manager and colleague also pay attention to each other and make an effort to prevent illnesses and health-related problems that may occur.

Mental health has a major impact on our overall health and well-being. It is about our skills and behaviors in social, educational and professional settings. It is therefore a state of how each of us can deal with the daily routines and challenges we face in everyday life.

Participation improves well-being

As a manager or employee, it is important that you can distinguish between the many tasks that you may be presented with. Which tasks are more relevant and how much is realistic to achieve within a certain period of time? This can be a good idea to have a conversation/meeting with your manager or boss about this. Empowerment and boundaries can help maintain well-being in the workplace. This is a way to support mental health in the workplace and prevent workplace stress, among other things.

Reasons to speak up:

  • Know your tasks and find out which ones are most relevant during a stressful period
  • You reject a task because you are already under pressure, not averse to later inclusion
  • See requests as recognition of your work
  • Accept that you cannot be part of all tasks and that you will miss something