Precursors to FM-Minimize Your Fibro Risk 

Stress At The Core

We have all probably lost count of the number of times we’ve heard that stress in the workplace is potentially hazardous to our health. Yet, regardless of the fact that we know and understand that information, we continue to remain in unhealthy situations. Prolonged stress is one of the mechanisms which can trigger problems for anyone who is predisposed to the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Let’s look at some statistics which help to support this understanding. In Australia, a survey indicated that fifty per cent of workers had suffered some form of stress at work in a 12-month period. Care worker stats were significantly higher and in 2002, the Department of Education and Training in Western Australia reported in its Attitudes to Teaching Survey, that 70 per cent of teachers identified workplace stress as a cause for concern in their teaching positions.

While a certain amount of stress is deemed necessary in order to optimize performance, prolonged stress can have a major impact on overall health. Stress is definitely linked to chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia – not to mention the many  other ailments which strike individuals under stress. Women suffer untold troubles manifesting as fibroids, endometriosis and fertility issues as a result of stress.

What Can Organizations Do?

So, what can one individual do to impact their world for good in terms of reducing the precursors to such ailments as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia? If they head an organization or are in some form of management, they can help their company educate employees to recognize the signs of stress and if at all possible, offer opportunities for the employees to be part of dialogues and discussions which impact their positions. Improved communication with higher levels and opportunities to socialize with peers is equally important. It is vital for companies to understand family commitments and responsibilities and allow for them. By ensuring staff is trained well, or at least has the opportunity to upgrade their education to fit into their positions better, takes a lot of strain off and lightens performance anxiety. Above all, support for the workers goes miles in helping them cope with the day-to-day stresses of their jobs.

What Can I Do?

An individual can ward off the effects of negative stress upon their bodies by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and ensuring they get enough rest. That’s just plain good sense, regardless. Relaxing during breaks rather than working through them, being better organized and creating boundaries are also effective ways to manage stress. Laughter lightens anybody’s load, so find ways to encourage light-heartedness and fun. Watch the caffeine and sugar intake, the burst of energy dissipates quickly, taking nutrients with it. Make the work environments as pleasurable as possible by playing pleasing music (if possible), using aroma therapy oils, hanging beautiful pictures or photos or having flowers close by. Just be sure that by trying to implement a stress free environment you don’t become stressed in the process.

The important part of creating a stress reduced workplace is that everyone benefits and precursors to chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia are minimized.