Surviving the recession: timely tips for employees

(NC)—They're stressed, anxious, worried about their jobs. Many Canadian employees are showing these and other signs of mental distress. According to the first results of the Desjardins Financial Security National Health Survey, a significant number of workers in Canada feel they have lost control of their lives as the economic recession grinds on, as unemployment numbers rise and as financial security appears to be evaporating.

The study found that one-third of those surveyed say they are more stressed now than a year ago. About 30 per cent of employees across Canada are experiencing anxiety, losing sleep, and/or suffering from headaches, muscle aches and other physical tension—symptoms which often precede more serious problems. Among their worries, three of the most stressful aspects of their lives are associated with their employment—money, workload and job security. Employees appear to be working longer hours, and 54 per cent feel the current recession is having an impact on their work/life balance. As well, 43 per cent are now concerned about losing their jobs. According to Michele Nowski, director of disability claims and disability management with Desjardins Financial Security, this uncertainty is creating an increasingly stressed-out workplace.

"When employees experience increased stress in their lives and work, this tends to result in increased presenteeism and absenteeism." said Nowski. “Employees and employers can work together to create a mentally healthy workplace that will typically have fewer disability claims, less absenteeism and better productivity."

Here are some useful tips to help employees weather the current economic times:

• Prepare yourself for a job search when job security is a worry. Take responsibility and focus on the things you can control.
• Conduct your own skills inventory by asking friends and family to identify your strengths. Make your own list of skills and attributes you have accrued at your present job and previous ones.
• Potential job loss can get you thinking about career opportunities you have always wished to explore. Research career paths of interest and determine their required skill sets.
• Stay connected to your world outside work.
• Don't buy into the low morale at your office. Avoid the rumour mill. Stay detached from gossip and negative thinking, and focus on your own accomplishments and goals.
• Cultivate your hobbies and interests. Now is the time to lift your mood by exploring the passions and interests that make you happy.
• Seek out your friends. Share each other's insights. Friends can offer support, comfort and humour.
• Don't avoid the company supports. Take advantage of your company's Employee Assistance Program.
• Take care of yourself. Don't drop your exercise program because you are too stressed.
• Exercise, sleep and good eating habits still comprise some of our best measures at combating mental health issues such as anger, depression, stress and anxiety.

More information on the Desjardins Financial Security Health is Cool survey is available online at www.healthiscool.ca.

Source: www.newscanada.com