Dealing with Stress: A Personal and Professional Perspective

By: Calla Krummel

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but understanding how to manage it can make all the difference. Recently, I took the Life Stress Inventory, Coping and Stress Management Skills Test, and Type A Personality Test, which offered valuable insights into my stress response and coping mechanisms.

According to the Life Stress Inventory, my score of 225 indicates a moderate risk of a major health issue within the next two years. Reflecting on this score, I recognize the importance of staying vigilant about my mental and physical health. The Coping and Stress Management Skills Test revealed that I often rely on problem-focused coping strategies, scoring 71 out of 100. While these strategies can be effective in addressing changeable stressors, they might fall short when facing situations beyond my control. Lastly, the Type A Personality Test highlighted a moderate level of impatience and irritability, with a score of 50. This trait can strain relationships and increase health risks if not properly managed.

To manage stress effectively, I plan to implement several strategies as I progress in my professional career. Personally, I find activities like spending time outdoors, cooking, hanging out with friends and family and listening to music to be great stress relievers. Professionally, leveraging resources such as employee assistance programs (EAPs) and counseling services will be crucial. For instance, my workplace offers therapy sessions, which could provide a structured outlet for stress management.

Organizations are increasingly prioritizing employee well-being by offering mental health resources and training programs. Many companies are now adopting initiatives like mindfulness workshops, manager mental health training, and on-site counseling. For example, Microsoft’s “Microsoft Cares” provides employees with access to professional counseling, while Pinterest invites health experts to educate employees on managing stress. These programs help create a supportive environment where employees feel valued and equipped to handle stress.

Recognizing and addressing stress is not just a personal responsibility—it’s a shared effort between individuals and organizations. By utilizing available resources and fostering open conversations about mental health, we can create healthier, more resilient workplaces.

Sources Cited:

17 Companies That Prioritize the Mental Health of Their Employees. (2022, May 12). Ripplematch.com. https://ripplematch.com/career-advice/companies-that-prioritize-the-mental-health-of-their-employees-ebec5754

Week 9 Lectures