How to Tell if a Job is Making you Sick

Job stress is a very real health concern. Nearly half of American workers report that they miss meals, take work home, forfeit vacations and neglect family and friends due to job-related stress. Job stress saps your energy, erodes your immune system, and opens the door for all kinds of illness and physical problems. Take steps to find out if your job is making you sick and what to do about it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Schedule a physical. Your doctor can assess your state of health and make recommendations. A physical exam will also provide a baseline to which future exams and tests can be compared.
2. Get counseling if you feel that you are suffering depression or anxiety due to your job. If your company has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), call for resources and guidance where you can get help.
3. Listen to your body. Headaches, joint and muscle aches and pain, stomach upset and general fatigue are just a few signs of stress.
4. Take note of your sleep habits. Do you fall asleep easily? Do you sleep through the night or are you wakeful and up and down until dawn? Insomnia and disturbed sleep patterns can be an indication of stress.
5. Make a note in your planner of any illnesses like colds, flu, rashes, weight loss or weight gain, or loss of appetite. This will give you a better record to discuss with your physician or counselor.
6. Talk to your boss about reassigning some of your tasks so that you can increase your performance. Job stress is often the result of an assignment overload or too many demands that have accumulated over time. Your supervisor may not be aware of how much you have to do.
7. Update your resume. If all else fails, it might be time to look for another position.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask for help. Set limits. Commit to taking better care of yourself.
• Don't wait until you're at the breaking point to realize that your job is making you sick.