Job stress is the harmful physical and emotional response resulting from a situation where the demands of a job are not matched by the resources provided to get the job done (job-related stress). It is not the same as experiencing challenges in the workplace.
Some degree of challenge is an important part of a rewarding job. The achievement and experience that goes along with meeting challenges can be beneficial for mental wellbeing. This type of pressure or stress is not a problem and can support wellbeing.
Problems arise when the balance of demands, resources, and control exceed the ability for the person to cope or where there is an effort vs reward imbalance. This is when pressure can lead to job stress.
The solution is to find a balance where the job requirements match the capabilities, resources and needs of the people carrying out the work, and effort is rewarded appropriately. Sometimes we’re able to find this balance ourselves and other times we need support from our managers and colleagues to help find this balance.
