top of page

Vocational Stress

SNOMED Terms

​

  • Adjustment disorder with depressed mood

  • Adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood

  • Antisocial personality disorder

  • Narcissistic personality disorder

  • Paranoid personality disorder

 

Goals

​

  • Improve satisfaction and comfort surrounding coworker relationships.

  • Increase sense of confidence and competence in dealing with work responsibilities.

  • Be cooperative with and accepting of supervision of direction in the work setting.

  • Increase sense of self-esteem and elevation of mood in spite of unemployment.

  • Increase job security as a result of more positive evaluation of performance by a supervisor.

  • Pursue employment consistency with a reasonably hopeful and positive attitude.

  • Increase job satisfaction and performance due to implementation of assertiveness and stress management strategies.

 

Behavioral Definitions

​

  • Feelings of anxiety and depression secondary to interpersonal conflict (perceived feelings of inadequacy, fear, and failure) secondary to severe business losses.

  • Fear of failure secondary to success or promotion that increases perceived expectations for greater success.

  • Rebellion against and/or conflicts with authority figures in the employment situation.

  • Feelings of anxiety and depression secondary to being fired or laid off, resulting in unemployment.

  • Anxiety related to perceived or actual job jeopardy.

  • Feelings of depression and anxiety related to complaints of job dissatisfaction or the stress of employment responsibilities.

 

Diagnoses

​

  • Adjustment Disorder With Depressed Mood

  • Dysthymic Disorder

  • Major Depressive Disorder

  • Occupational Problem

  • Adjustment Disorder With Anxiety

  • Alcohol Dependence

  • Cocaine Dependence

  • Polysubstance Dependence

  • Paranoid Personality Disorder

  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder

  • Antisocial Personality Disorder

  • Personality Disorder NOS

What is Vocational Stress? 

Vocational stress, also known as work-related stress or occupational stress, refers to the negative psychological and physical effects a person experiences due to the demands, pressures, and challenges of their work. It arises from the imbalance between the demands of the job and the resources and capabilities of the worker.
 

Here's a deeper dive into what vocational stress entails:
 

Causes of Vocational Stress:
 

  • Heavy Workload and Time Pressure: Working long hours, tight deadlines, and a feeling of constantly being overwhelmed with tasks can be significant stressors.

  • Lack of Control: Feeling like you have little control over your work schedule, tasks, or decision-making can be frustrating and lead to stress.

  • Poor Work-Life Balance: Difficulty separating work from personal life and the feeling that work is always encroaching on personal time can contribute to stress.

  • Lack of Support: Feeling like you don't have adequate support from colleagues, supervisors, or management can be isolating and stressful.

  • Unsafe Work Environment: Fear of injury, exposure to toxins, or a physically demanding job can contribute to stress.

  • Interpersonal Conflict: Difficult relationships with colleagues, supervisors, or clients can create a stressful work environment.

  • Organizational Changes: Restructuring, mergers, or downsizing can create uncertainty and anxiety for employees.

  • Lack of Recognition: Feeling undervalued or underappreciated for your work can be demotivating and stressful.

  • Unrealistic Expectations: Having unrealistic expectations from yourself or employers can set you up for failure and contribute to stress.

Effects of Vocational Stress

Chronic work-related stress can have a significant impact on your:

​

Mental Health: It can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, and difficulty concentrating.


Physical Health: Stress can manifest in physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, sleep problems, and a weakened immune system.


Behavior: People experiencing stress may become irritable, withdrawn, or have difficulty making decisions.


Relationships: Work stress can take a toll on your relationships with family and friends.


Work Performance: Chronic stress can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and increased risk of accidents.

How does Vocational Stress affect your life?

Here's how vocational stress can affect one's life:

​

Physical Health: Prolonged exposure to vocational stress can lead to physical health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and musculoskeletal disorders. 

​

Mental Health: Vocational stress is closely linked to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and burnout. 

​

Relationships: Individuals experiencing high levels of stress may have less energy, patience, and emotional availability to invest in their relationships. 

​

Work Performance: Individuals experiencing high levels of stress may have difficulty concentrating, making decisions, and meeting deadlines. 

​

Career Development: Individuals may feel stuck or trapped in their current roles, unable to pursue new opportunities or challenges.

​

Work-Life Balance: Vocational stress can disrupt work-life balance, making it challenging for individuals to prioritize self-care, leisure activities, and personal relationships outside of work. 

​

Financial Concerns: Vocational stress can have financial implications, particularly if it leads to job loss, reduced income, or increased healthcare expenses due to stress-related health problems.

​

Overall Well-being: It's essential for individuals experiencing vocational stress to prioritize self-care, seek support from trusted sources, and explore strategies for managing stress effectively. 

bottom of page