Stress Management

How Can Swimming Benefit Healthcare Workers?

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

SWIMMING RACE

Written By Lucy Peters

Healthcare workers face a plethora of physical and mental hazards on a daily basis — including biological hazards, stress, slips and falls at work, and more. They are at a high risk for developing musculoskeletal disorders owing to the handling, positioning, and lifting of patients. A study published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care reports that common injuries include sprains and strains, with the most affected body parts including shoulders, the lower back, calves, and hand muscles. Stress is another issue for people working in this profession, with studies showing that the prevalence of workplace stress stands at around 68.2%. There are many exercise programs that can help curb physical and mental stress, with holistic activities such as yoga being particularly strong in terms of boosting mental health. Swimming is another activity that can be useful in terms of boosting physical and mental resilience.

Swimming and Stress

Swimming can help curb stress, as found in a study published in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health. The study focused on the effect of winter swimming on mood, with findings showing that stress and fatigue decreased significantly during the four-month study period, while memory and mood improved. Those who took winter swims reported higher energy and activity than the control group. Swimming also has important physical benefits; participants who had rheumatism, asthma, and fibromyalgia reported that the activity had relieved their pain.

Swimming and Muscular Pain

Nurses and other health professionals who have experienced a painful injury should receive a professional diagnosis and treatment plan, since some injuries benefit from physiotherapy and exercise while others require rest. Generally, swimming is good for the shoulders because it gives muscles a good workout without loading the joints. Many patients with lower back pain are also prescribed swimming as a form of rehabilitation, because of the buoyant force of water. Swimming can also be a good way for those with minor sprains to enjoy a cardiovascular workout, focusing on the upper body. However, as warned by U.S. Masters Swimming’s Linda Foley, in the case of severe sprains, this exercise should be avoided because “The kicking motion puts the ankle in the plantar-flexed (pointed) and inverted position (toe slightly in), which places more direct pressure on the already sprained ligament.” The effect can be delayed healing.

The Importance of Correct Form

Health workers who are keen on trying out this activity should learn basic swimming skills under the guidance of a trainer or swimming instructor. They should take things slowly, focusing on proper technique. They can start with half an hour sessions around three times a week, making sure that their stroke and positioning is right. This is because poor technique can strain muscles and/or make small injuries worse.

Swimming and Obesity

Obesity prevalence is high across all professions in the U.S., including nurses (25.1%) and other healthcare professionals (14.4%). In a study by R. Kyle et al., researchers insist that this is a cause of concern because obesity “increases the risks of musculoskeletal conditions and mental health conditions that are the main causes of sickness absence in health services.” Swimming not only burns calories but also works out more of the body’s major muscle groups than other types of exercise. When running or cycling, for instance, people mainly work out their legs. Swimming involves not only the leg muscles but also the arms, chest, and core. Thus, those who swim assiduously boast excellent muscular development in the upper body.

Nurses and other health workers face specific risks, including stress and musculoskeletal injuries. Swimming can help them in many ways, by battling stress, playing a role in rehabilitation, and helping to strengthen muscles. This popular activity is also ideal for those wishing to lose weight and develop the muscles in their upper body.

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professional.

Stress Management Consulting Program Article on Monitoring Stress

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Business men and women deal with a high level of stress.  Anyone in the work force deals with some type of stress.  Individuals need to be able to deal and cope with stress in a positive way to continue operating at a high and effective level.  This involves stress management techniques to help the person stay at the top of his or her game.

Stress is counter productive to business and the ability for business people to perform at high levels. Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program

 

The article, “How To Develop Effective Stress Management Techniques” by Brian Tate looks at how stress management can help individuals cope with stress and be successful.  He states,

“There are various roots of stress, known commonly as stressors, which act as trigger points to activate it in the body. For instance, a person can find him or herself stuck in a stressful situation during decision-making, a presentation, the death of someone or any health problem. The effect of stress on the body results in a lack of sleep, irritation, constant agitation and other health problem”

To read the entire article, please click here

Stress needs to be controlled and properly coped with for success.  It is important to implement good stress management strategies.  If your looking to learn more about stress or would like to help others manage their stress, then please review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program

 

Stress Management Consulting Article on Stress of Office Politics

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Stress can be caused by multiple issues in the office.   Management needs to curtail these issues to create a productive work environment.   Office politics plays one of the biggest roles of stress in the office.   It can cause divisions, resentment and gossip.   It can also prevent management from rewarding based on merit instead of status.

Office politics and favoritism can play a large source of stress. Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program

 

The article “Office politics major source of work related stress”  by Jayne Smith looks at some of the issues caused by office politics.  She states,

“In contrast, the number 1 cause of work-related stress is now ‘work-related office politics’ – with 37 percent commonly experiencing this issue. Following recent scrutiny and growing awareness of toxic work environments, ‘office politics’ clearly presents itself as a pressing issue for HR strategies in the upcoming year. ”

To read the entire article, please click here

Learning to overcome stress in the office is key to a healthy work environment and high productivity.  Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program

Stress Management Consulting Program Article on Stress and Heart Health

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Stress is not merely an emotional reaction to life but it also manifests within the body.  It can lead to a multitude of physical ailments that can become serious health concerns over time.  Among one of the more dangerous ailments is heart disease.  Heart disease is a big killer among Americans and stress can play a big role with it.

Stress can be directly correlated with heart disease. Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program

 

The article, “How Are Stress and Heart Disease Related?” from HealthEssentials of Cleveland Clinic looks more at the nature of stress and its relationship with heart disease.   The article states,

“When stress becomes a constant companion it can cause some serious negative consequences on our health. Stress increases the plaque rate and it can accumulate in the arteries. It makes platelets sticky and prone to forming clots that can block these arteries. Stress can also cause arteries to constrict, starving the heart of nourishing blood and triggering chest pain or a heart attack.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Good stress management strategies are essential in coping with stress and everyday issues.  Stress can be a deadly killer if it is left unchecked throughout life.  Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.

 

Stress Management Consulting Article on ER Nurses and Stress

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

One of the most stressful jobs is ER nursing.  Lives hang in the balance and quick decisions need to be made.  The pressure of an ER nurse cannot be denied.  The stress that results from this type of high pressure nursing can be over bearing at times.  Sometimes a patient dies, or a nurse is stretched from one patient to another.  This type of environment is not for the weak of heart.  The ER nurse needs to be able to control emotion and stress.

ER nurses deal with immense amounts of stress. Stress Management is key. Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program

 

The article, “Stress Management For The Emergency Room Nurse” by Rosa Elizabeth Vargas looks closer at how ER nurses can better cope with stress.  She states,

“As an ER nurse, you know how taxing emergency nursing can be. If you don’t know, allow me to share that many of my ER nursing clients say it is complete turmoil—but they love what they do. You can ask a new ER nurse or a veteran ER nurse, and they will tell you that the Emergency Department (ED) is one of the most challenging patient care units…”

To read the entire article, please click here

ER nurses love their job and they love saving lives but being able to stay calm and cool at work and at home can be a challenge.  Stress Management is a key ingredient for nurses.  Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it meets your professional goals.

 

 

Stress Management Consultant Certification Article on Managing Stress at Work

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Stress is everywhere in life, but it is usually more intense in the workplace.  Work place stress varies from organization to organization.  Some work places its very nature is higher stressed while others have less stress, but it is important to minimize stress to the fullest potential.  How to deal with stress and incorporate stress management concepts is key for good business.  Less stress equates with better performance and output.

How can stress be reduced in the workplace? Please also review our Stress Management Consultant Certification

 

The article, “Workplace Mental Health Programs: What They Are, And What They’re Worth” by Silke Glaab looks at how to reduce stress and incorporate better practices.  The article states,

“With the growing prevalence of mental and stress-related disorders in the general population, the importance of health and well-being programs is being recognized more and more in the corporate world. Employers are also seeing its benefit both to attract new talent and to retain existing employees.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Workplace stress can be controlled and minimized through good stress management implementation.  Managers need to incorporate these strategies or utilize the aid of a certified Stress Management Consultant.  Please review our Stress Management Consultant Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals

 

The Intricate Connection Between Poor Posture, Shoulder Pain, and Stress

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Eraser deleting the concept Panic Attacks

Written By Lucy Peters

The average American adult spends around six and a half hours a day sitting down. This statistic contributes not only to possible long-term effects such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity, but also to poor posture and, eventually, pain and stress. As found in a 2019 study by researchers at San Francisco State University, many people slouch while working on their computers, which can compress the neck, cause shoulder problems, and contribute to stress. After all, an average head and neck can weigh in the region of 45 pounds. As stated by the researchers, “When your posture is tall and erect, the muscles of your back can easily support the weight of your head and neck—as much as 12 pounds. But when your head juts forward at a 45º angle, your neck acts like a long lever lifting a heavy object.”

The Effect of Stress on Shoulder Pain

The relationship between posture, pain, and stress is complex, since stress can contribute to both poor posture and pain. Many people with anxiety disorders tense muscles throughout their body—including the neck and shoulder area—especially when they are stressed. However, even those without a mental disorder who face stress regularly, can develop pain. For instance, a study published in the Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran, undertaken on nurses, found that the incidence of neck and shoulder pain was higher in those who had a higher level of work-related stress.

Shoulder Pain Can Cause Stress

Pain in the neck and shoulder areas is not the only problem that poor posture can produce; it can also affect mental health by increasing stress. A study published in the Journal of Occupation Health and Psychology found that workers who reported more musculoskeletal pain also tended to have more stress and psychosomatic symptoms. Pain reduction under the supervision of their doctor or physical therapist should be prioritized among health care staff.

Doctors may recommend a combination of stretching, strength, and expansion exercises. Shoulder circles, doorway shoulder stretches, and the use of gym rings can also improve mobility. Those using rings at home should ensure their equipment is certified safe, and capable of bearing their weight. In addition to rings, resistance bands, and yoga mats are accessories that can be used at home to boost gym workouts or to replace them if time is of the essence.

Steps to Take to Battle Stress and Shoulder Pain

Hospitals, clinics, and other institutions employing staff who work at desks should ensure that desks and chairs are ergonomically suited to the tasks being performed. Experts in ergonomics can help ensure that everything from lighting to desk height, helps to reduce pain. Stress should be seen as a separate yet equally important issue that should be tackled proactively. Health workers should have time and opportunities to exercise outdoors, since being in nature has been found to be an effective stress buster. Also beneficial are holistic exercises such as yoga and Tai Chi, both of which can be offered to staff as a way to enhance mindfulness and relaxation.

Poor posture, neck and shoulder pain, and stress are inexorably linked. This is especially true when it comes to workers who work for many hours at desk jobs. In addition to doing exercise and battling stress regularly, workers should seek professional help if pain is prolonged. Rehabilitation exercises aiming to improve mobility and functionality can go a long way towards reducing both pain and stress.

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.

Stress and Healthcare Professionals: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Sleeping man near money with calculator

Written By Lucy Peters

83% of workers in the United States experience work-related stress according to the American Institute of Stress, and those who work in the healthcare industry aren’t exempt. With many factors at play, such as a heavy workload and long hours, stress is often viewed as an inevitable part of the job. However, by recognizing the causes and effects of stress, you can manage it much more easily. Whether you’re looking to get certified for the first time, or are planning to re-certify, keeping in mind how stress can affect you in the healthcare line of work

Causes of stress in the healthcare industry

For many in healthcare professions, stress is considered as an unavoidable part of the job. While the causes of workplace stress vary from person to person, it’s commonly triggered by heavy workloads, long hours, and the sheer amount of responsibility that comes with the position. Student loan debt may also be a major stressor for some considering the amount of schooling needed for many healthcare positions,  though it can be especially stressful when figuring out how to manage troubling finances. While causes of stress in the healthcare industry are abundant, it’s necessary to keep in mind that it can have a serious impact on a worker’s health, and even on their patients – and even more so for those who are just beginning their careers.

The physical and mental side effects

While getting to the root of workplace stressors can be a great way to begin solving your problems, identifying the symptoms of stress can prove to be just as important.  Common physical symptoms include headaches, muscle pain/tension, and fatigue. Stress can also increase your risks of developing health problems like high blood pressure, and can lead to further issues like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

While the physical effects of stress on the body may be a bit more difficult to notice for some, the mental effects may be more prominent. Mentally, someone who is experiencing workplace stress may develop anxiety, a lack of focus, mood swings, and can feel overwhelmed, which can all affect one’s ability to do their job, thus putting the patients at risk. In more severe cases, stress can also lead to depression as well, making it vital to manage the symptoms as early as possible.

Managing your symptoms and when to see a doctor 

While you’re sure to experience stress at some point in your career, there are several ways you can manage your symptoms and relieve it, both at work and at home. At work, taking a walk on your break can be a great way to clear your head, and making sure you’re taking all of your breaks in the first place can be a great help in getting your mind off of the task at hand.

At home, regular physical activity can act as an outlet. In fact, respondents to a Stress in America survey reported that 30% of adults felt less stressed after exercising. Other ways to relieve stress at home include participating in relaxing activities, like yoga or meditation, which can both allow you to clear your mind and think things through in a peaceful way.

While there are many simple ways to reduce and relieve stress in your day to day life as a healthcare professional, it’s necessary to know when it’s time to see a doctor. For instance, if you’re experiencing the more severe symptoms that stress can bring (like depression), or if the stress affects your job (or day-to-day life), it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor.

While it’s likely that everyone will experience stress at some point in their lives, those in the healthcare industry may view it as part of the job. For that reason, it’s necessary to know about the symptoms – both physical and mental – that stress can bring in order to identify and manage them, before they become too overwhelming.

 

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.

 

Can Fabrics Worsen Anxiety for People on the Spectrum?

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Written By Lucy Peters

If you have a child on the spectrum and the first thing they do when they are anxious is reach for a plush toy or a soft blanket, it is probably because people are more attentive to tactile stimuli when they are upset, as found in a recent study. Fabrics are particularly important for people on the spectrum because these disorders are associated with differences in responses to sensory stimuli and sensitivity to these stimuli. To what extent can the choice of fabric aid or worsen distress in persons with ASD?

Pleasure and Distress are Matters of Perception

A study published in the journal Autism Research looked into how people with autism react to different textured surfaces compared to people who were not on the spectrum. Results showed that people with Apserger’s syndrome gave similar ratings for ‘roughness’ and ‘pleasantness’ of surfaces to those of their peers. However, they had a slight tendency to find the least pleasant stimulus (mesh fabric) rougher and less pleasing than their typical counterparts. Their research also found that the more frequent the exposure to unpleasant materials was, the greater the distress with respect to the material.

Wearing Clothes Amounts to Repeated Exposure

In the above study, participants were simply ‘touched’ with different textures/materials. Because results showed that repeated exposure increased negative response, it is only logical that if participants had to actually wear unpleasant materials, the result could be the kind of distress that could trigger anxiety. As found by research by Gillott and Standen, increased anxiety for people with ASD in strongly related to sensory stimuli and unpleasant events.

People with ASD React More Intensely to Unpleasant Stimulation

Dan King’s study showed that people with ASD have a more intense reaction to unpleasant rather than pleasant stimuli. This means that when choosing fabrics for everyday shirts, trousers etc., it is almost more important to beware of fabrics that are known to distress a person with ASD, rather than trying to find clothing that seems pleasant to someone who is not on the spectrum. Less grating fabrics such as cotton are typical choices for everyday wear, while rougher materials such as linen or rafia may be more distressing.

ASD and Sensory Anxiety

Taking great care to find the right fabric is key for anyone with ASD, but if they also have sensory processing disorder (SPD), then doing so can have a big effect on a person’s quality of life. For people with SPD, a sensorily unfriendly environment is a trigger to anxiety. Triggers can come from uncomfortable clothing, loud noises, or bright lights. Symptoms of this type of anxiety range from dizziness to stomach cramps, and even poor balance. Some advocate slow exposure to the source of anxiety (e.g. touching an unpleasant fabric, wearing a small piece of this fabric then eventually a larger piece) until exposure becomes less distressing.

The clothes people with ASD wear can play an important role in affecting mood and anxiety. They can react particularly strongly to fabrics they find unpleasant, so exposure should be gradual. If they also have severe SPD then avoidance (prevention) can be a better option than battling against distress. Each individual should decide what fabrics they are comfortable with, especially when it comes to clothing – which is worn for various hours straight and on repeated occasions.

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.

Stress Management Consulting Program Article on Burnout

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Burnout can happen to even the most energetic and optimistic person.  Over work, heavy schedule, stress and sickness can all lead to a burnout.  If someone pushes him or herself too much, it can happen suddenly.  Burnout can be avoided by properly scheduling oneself and setting limitations.  It can also be avoided by taking time to take care of oneself.  It is important to give self care for one’s own health.

Identifying burnout before it hits is critical to health. Please also review our Stress Management Consulting Program

 

The article, “Prevent burnout – 3 burnout symptoms and how to avoid them” by Thea O’Connor reviews the various issues surrounding burnout and how to avoid and also overcome it.  She states,

“Burnout affects about 5-7 per cent of the working population, according to Michael Leiter, professor of industrial and organisational psychology at Deakin University. Leiter explains that it is difficult to say if the condition is on the rise, since burnout has not been tracked over time, and is likely to be hidden in the “mental stress” category of workers’ compensation claims.”

To read the entire article on burnout, please click here

Burnout can happen suddenly to someone who constantly is doing too much.  It is important to notice the signs.  Also, please review our Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.