Summary: Workplace stress has become a widespread issue. But what about the stress that goes unnoticed? The stress that lingers beneath the surface can impact your health, productivity, and even your relationships at work. This “invisible stress” is a silent force that can wreak havoc on an organization if left unchecked. Understanding and managing it is crucial for both employees and employers.
Dear Dr. Sylvia,
I will keep this short and to the point.
I have so many employees taking time off for stress-related issues that we are falling behind in work.
In fact, as the founder of the company, I have been taking antacids like they are candy.
I tell people to take longer lunch hours, leave early, and do whatever to make it a fun and comfortable workplace.
However, this is a work facility, not a summer camp!
And as I hear you say:
“Work is NOT a rehab facility.”
— Sylvia Lafair
What am I missing?
Signed,
Dis-stressed
Dear Dis-stressed,
There is so much stimulation these days that no one really has a chance to de-stress. Thus, being in dis-stress is now the norm.
Firstly, let’s examine a type of stress we have ignored that may benefit you and your employees.
What Is Invisible Stress?
Invisible stress refers to the mental and emotional strain that isn’t always obvious. Unlike visible stressors—such as tight deadlines or heavy workloads—invisible stress often stems from deeper, less apparent sources. It might include:
- Unresolved emotional triggers from past experiences
- Fear of failure or imposter syndrome
- Interpersonal conflicts that go unaddressed
- Perceived lack of control or uncertainty about the future
- Unclear expectations at work
All things considered, because invisible stress isn’t immediately visible, it’s often harder to identify and address. Yet, it impacts well-being and work performance over time.
Why Learning About Invisible Stress Matters
Like an itch you can’t scratch, invisible stress stays like an annoying fly moving from place to place on your body.
Look, you can use all the anti-itch creams in the world, yet they are only a cover for what is really “bugging” you.
Hidden Patterns ignored cause burnout
When you tell employees to take a longer lunch, it won’t change the real reasons for their stress. As you suggest, they will come back from lunch with the same or more stress, with an added case of indigestion.
Why?
Because they still feel out of sorts and can’t explain the real reason.
Anger, frustration, and disappointment become a way of life.
Others, often blame you, “the boss,” or other executives.
In addition, at work, it becomes a “he did it, she did it, they did it” world.
And eventually, there is not even enough energy to blame; just stare and sulk.
Finally, one of the most significant effects of invisible stress is burnout, a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion.
When employees aren’t aware of their underlying stressors, they are more likely to experience burnout, leading to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and even quitting their job
Emotional well-being goes out the window, and the mental strain stays well under the radar.
Learning about ingrained behavior enhances emotional Intelligence
Understanding invisible stress enables employees to develop higher emotional intelligence (EQ). They become more adept at recognizing their own stress triggers and managing them effectively, which leads to improved relationships with coworkers and supervisors.
I will give an example from my own life.
As a kid with an older brother who was “king of the hill” I learned to get attention by throwing a ‘hissy fit.’
It worked well to get attention and lower my stress level of not being heard.
Then, at work, when situations did not go as I planned and I felt I was not being heard, the stress would go over the top and voila, the ‘hissy fit drama queen’ reared her loud, annoying head.
Above all, now, that I know its root, I can stop myself and make positive changes.
In fact, I changed the drama queen to be a good story teller.
That way, I can still be heard; only now it is being listened to with purpose.
When invisible stress is observed, it promotes better decision-making
Stress clouds judgment, leading to impulsive or poor decision-making. Employees who can identify and manage invisible stress are less likely to let their emotions dictate their decisions, resulting in more thoughtful, calculated choices at work.
When we tame hidden stress, there is a real possibility of emotional well-being at work.
Learning to transform invisible stress fosters a positive work environment
Above all, when employees know their invisible stressors and work on managing them, they contribute to a more harmonious workplace. Teams that openly communicate stress-related issues are more collaborative, creative, and effective.
Reduces Healthcare Costs
Unmanaged stress—especially the invisible kind—leads to physical health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Organizations can help reduce healthcare costs related to these conditions by addressing invisible stress.
How Invisible Stress Impacts the Workplace
Most importantly, invisible stress doesn’t just affect the individual—its ripple effects travel across entire teams and organizations. Some of the ways invisible stress manifests in the workplace include:
Lower Productivity
When employees are stressed, even if they don’t consciously recognize it, they are more likely to make mistakes, miss deadlines, and struggle with focus. This can result in lower overall productivity.
Increased Absenteeism
Employees experiencing high levels of invisible stress are more likely to take time off due to mental or physical health issues. Over time, this absenteeism can become a significant cost to the company.
Higher Turnover Rates
In short, chronic stress, whether visible or invisible, leads to job dissatisfaction. Employees who are not supported in managing their stress are more likely to leave. This results in higher turnover and the costs associated with replacing them.
In the same vein, invisible stress can lead to passive-aggressive behaviors, poor communication, and internal conflicts.
Tips for Managing Invisible Stress in the Workplace
Here are some actionable strategies to help employees become aware of and manage their invisible stress:
Self-Awareness and Mindfulness
Encourage employees to practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or journaling to help identify their stress triggers. Being self-aware is the first step to managing invisible stress.
Encourage Open Communication
Foster an environment where employees feel safe to discuss their stressors. Regular check-ins with supervisors or HR can help bring hidden stressors to light and provide opportunities for resolution.
My online -program, “STRESS BUSTERS,” is often used by intact teams. They can discuss the impact of stress and how it affects their emotional well-being.https://ceoptions.com/2024/05/stress-busters-certificate-program-how-to-practice-safe-stress-at-work/
Provide Access to Wellness Programs
Offer programs that address not just physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. Workshops on emotional intelligence, resilience, and stress management can be highly beneficial.
Offer Flexibility
Stress often stems from feeling overworked or overwhelmed. Offering flexible working hours or remote work options can help reduce stress and give employees a better work-life balance.
Lead by Example
All in all, leaders should model stress management techniques and prioritize mental health. When employees see their leaders actively managing stress, they are more likely to follow suit.
Invisible stress might not always be seen, but its effects are felt throughout an organization. Employees who learn to recognize and manage this hidden force are more likely to thrive in their roles, contribute to a positive workplace culture, and avoid burnout. For companies, helping their staff manage invisible stress can lead to increased productivity, lower turnover, and a more harmonious work environment.
In conclusion, by addressing invisible stress, employees can improve their well-being, foster better relationships, and create a more balanced and fulfilling work life. Take the first step today—encourage your team to uncover what’s hidden and deal with invisible stress before it takes a toll.
To your success,
Sylvia Lafair
PS. You and your employees can start by reading “Invisible Stress: It’s NOT What YOU Think” and bringing to light your invisible stressors. The book offers actionable ways to transform these annoying, hidden stressors so they no longer take charge.
