Stress at work: Do you need a private psychiatrist?

Do you feel like you are displaying signs of stress at work? If you’re worried you’re experiencing symptoms of stress or burnout, our private psychiatrist in Canary Wharf can help. Dr Irina Panihhidina is experienced in providing effective treatment for stress and anxiety.

Relationship problems and money issues are some of the most recognised causes of stress, but stress at work is also very prevalent – perhaps more so than many realise.

Workplace stress can reduce productivity and create performance issues.

But what’s most concerning is that it is at its highest in 16 years, according to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). Their most recent research shows:

• The total number of cases of work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2016/17 was 526,000
• The total number of working days lost due to this condition in 2016/17 was 12.5 million days
• In 2016/17 stress, depression or anxiety accounted for 40% of all work-related ill health cases and 49% of all working days lost due to ill health
• The main reasons for the stress were cited as workload, deadline pressure, too much responsibility and not enough managerial support

Despite the prevalence of stress in modern day life, there is still a stigma around workplace stress and those suffering often feel like they will be seen as weak. However, stress is a natural reaction.

So, what is stress?

When we experience a stressful situation our body produces stress hormones which in turn triggers the fight or flight response. The heart rate increases, as does blood pressure and breathing rate, and the body becomes tense, waiting for action. Stress is a physical response to perceived danger, threatening circumstances or events.

Dr Irina Panihhidina, our Consultant Psychiatrist, explains: “Back when we were cavemen, the fight or flight response would help us to survive, but in modern society we no longer need to run from predators; the situations that trigger the fight or flight response have changed, and many are more psychological – preparing to give a big meeting, for example.

“Everyone will experience stress at some point in their lives. Stress is a natural response and it can be useful in certain situations – for example, when there is a deadline. But, persistent and excessive stress can lead to feelings of being unable to cope, and can have long-lasting effects on both your physical and mental health.”

Signs of stress: Are you experiencing stress at work?

The symptoms of stress can vary widely from person to person according to our genetics, social and economic situation. It can affect a person physically, behaviorally and psychologically. Some of the most common stress symptoms include:

Psychological signs of stress:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Worsening memory
• Frustration
• Fear

Behavioural signs of stress:

• Aggressiveness
• Mood swings
• Inability to concentrate
• Restlessness
• Becoming withdrawn
• Indecisiveness
• Tearfulness
• Constant worrying

Physical signs of stress:

• Tense muscles
• Insomnia
• Eating habits changing
• Grinding teeth
• Chest pains

If you are experiencing a combination of these symptoms we recommend booking an appointment with a private psychiatrist for assessment. Please don’t hesitate to call our admin team on 0207 132 1440 who will be able to book you in at your convenience, or answer any questions you may have.

Dealing with stress: How to reduce stress at work

“Learning about stress and understanding how it affects you can be beneficial in helping to reduce stress.” explains Dr Panihhidina.

There are some initial steps you can take to help reduce your stress at work:

Establish social support:

Social support is very important in reducing stress. Reach out to coworkers and friends to nurture supportive relationships.

Review your nutrition and exercise:

Cutting back on caffeine (which triggers the fight or flight response), and reducing your intake of sugars and refined carbohydrates, can have a positive effect on your mood.

Get more sleep

Taking steps to improve your quality sleep can be beneficial. Have you tried meditation before bed? Reducing your exposure to electronic devices? Having a relaxing bath?

Establish boundaries:

This can have a positive effect on your stress levels and can reduce conflicts.

Prioritise:

Decide what’s really important and don’t over commit.

Try to focus on the positives: Be mindful of focussing on the positives instead of the negatives and take a moment to appreciate your achievements.

Treatment for stress at work

Treatment for workplace stress here at LycaHealth involves developing a tailored ongoing treatment plan that may include a combination of medication (rTMS), talking therapies and self-help techniques.

Seeing a private psychiatrist means no waiting for treatment, and you’ll be seen at our convenient luxury clinic in Canary Wharf.

You will work with experienced Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Panihhidina, to identify your stressors, develop healthier responses, and give you the skills you need to cope with stress effectively.

If you would like to book an appointment with Dr Panihhidina or have any questions you would like answered, please don’t hesitate to call our admin team on 0207 132 1440.