Introduction 

The types of work-related stress and the causes in the context of South Africa.  Workplace stress can be defined as the circumstances arising from the interaction of people and their jobs. It is usually characterized by changes within people that force them to diverge from their normal functioning. It is necessary to identify the types and causes of work-related stress. This will assist employers in supporting their employees in managing such related stresses. With increasing competition between companies, employers put a lot of pressure on employees to enhance their companies’ performance to overcome their competitors. 

Origins of work pressure

Work stress is a global issue that keeps rising among working adults. The best way to be able to manage stress is by first identifying it. Long hours and overloaded work are pivotal in being a higher source of stress for employees. Overloading work can be a draining factor for employees. Employers demand a lot of work from their employees, pressuring them to work longer hours. In addition, other sources of work-related stress include conflict with bosses or co-workers and threats to job security.    Stress is the result of pressures exceeding our ability to cope with them. If we experience too much stress in the workplace, we become psychologically overwhelmed and unable to avoid the tensions in our jobs.

Common work-related stress

The most common type of work-related stress is psychological stress. Psychological stress could be chronic. Usually, this stress lasts for a longer period. It would range from weeks or months. In some cases, it has become a norm as it has been there long and is not regarded as an issue. Psychological stress can affect the rational and emotional being of a person. Emotional effects of psychological stress can involve mood changes, tension, anxiety, nervousness, Irritability, Unhappiness, and Hopelessness. Cognitive effects involve difficulty focusing, lack of self-confidence, negative thoughts, memory issues, worrying, and trouble making decisions.

Mental Health vs Workspace

Employees temporarily employed at an institution tend to be concerned about their next job and are under pressure to impress the employer for a contract extension. The lack of work relations, poor or unsupportive relationships with colleagues and superiors, isolation, and unfair treatment can result in an unhealthy environment in a workplace. Work also becomes problematic when it interferes with workers’ personal and family lives. Signs of stress can be seen in behavioural changes in their lives. Depression, anxiety, exhaustion, and other mental states might cause problems with concentrating and problem-solving. Women are most likely to experience workplace stress as they have a burden of responsibilities from home and the work environment (caring for their families and work duties because their jobs are demanding). 

Consequences of Work on the mental health of employees

Two of the leading and most severe psychological impacts of stress include the increased likelihood of anxiety and depression (Quick & Henderson, 2016). Depression is ranked as one of the most significant factors in illness, disease, and loss of productivity in the workplace, affecting around 16% of adults (Quick & Henderson, 2016). Prolonged stress can also lead to anxiety disorders and burnout, with high costs to the individual and the organization. Stress is also a significant factor in behavioural distress, increasing drug use, including reliance on tobacco, alcohol, and prescription and illicit drugs. While directly affecting employee health and wellbeing, smoking and alcohol also cost the employer dearly with lost productivity and healthcare expenditure. Alcohol and other drugs can also lead to workplace aggression, an increased likelihood of industrial accidents, and in extreme circumstances, death (Quick & Henderson, 2016).

Conclusion and Recommendations

Workplace stress can be manageable with various measures being employed to assist the employees. Employees should raise their concerns with their employers, such as unfair treatment. Employers should consider their employees’ welfare and health by cutting long hours of work time and reducing the amount of work they are required to do.  Employers need to reflect on their management style. Encourage an environment where employees have more say over their duties, promotional prospects, and safety.