The Role of Performance Psychology in Managing Stress and Anxiety in the Workplace
In the contemporary work environment, stress and anxiety are not just personal challenges; they are organisational issues that impact productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. Performance psychology provides a strategic approach to manage these issues, not only enhancing individual employee performance but also contributing to the broader success of organisations.
Understanding the Impact of Workplace Stress
Workplace stress is an omnipresent reality for many professionals. As noted by Machani and colleagues (2023), stress significantly affects the performance and well-being of employees. The study highlights that increased workload and organisational pressures can lead to diminished job performance and a negative impact on the psychological well-being of employees. This in turn affects overall productivity and growth opportunities within the company.
Similarly, findings from Hennekam et al. (2020) show the effects of mental health conditions on job performance. The study reveals that such conditions can lead to lower work quality, decreased pace, and increased errors. However, it also brings to light various coping strategies that employees adopt, ranging from detrimental behaviours such as substance abuse to beneficial practices like mindfulness and open communication.
The Role of Performance Psychology
Performance psychology steps into this complex landscape with tools and techniques aimed at enhancing mental resilience and managing stress effectively. As discussed in the TedX talk by Dr. Janell MacAulay, a focus on performance under stress by cultivating mindfulness and recovery strategies can lead to substantial improvements in both personal and professional domains.
Key Strategies from Performance Psychology:
Mindfulness and Awareness: Cultivating a practice of mindfulness can help employees become more aware of their stress triggers and their reactions to them. This awareness is the first step towards effective stress management.
Strategic Recovery: Just as physical athletes need recovery periods, mental resilience is bolstered by strategic recovery times that allow the brain to replenish and reset. This could be through scheduled breaks, meditation sessions, or simply time spent in nature.
Open Communication: Encouraging a culture of transparency about mental health can destigmatize stress and anxiety. This enables employees to seek help without fear of judgment and facilitates support systems within the workplace.
Tailored Coping Mechanisms: Performance psychology can help individuals tailor coping strategies that suit their specific needs and work environments, such as using humor, taking mental health days, or engaging in physical activities that help in stress relief.
Performance Coaching and Mental Skills Training: Regular sessions with a performance psychologist can equip employees with mental skills to handle pressure situations, enhance focus, and maintain motivation under stress.
At The Mental Game Clinic, we specialize in helping leaders and athletes across various settings to achieve peak performance. Our clinic’s team of psychologists, psychotherapists, and mental performance consultants are trained in helping adults and teenagers navigate the challenges that may hinder their performance and success.
Book a free 15-minute consultation appointment today, and start your journey towards enhanced mental well-being and improved performance.
By integrating mental training into their routine, athletes can ensure they are prepared to meet their challenges head-on, both in and out of the arena.
References
Hennekam, S., Richard, S. and Grima, F. (2020), "Coping with mental health conditions at work and its impact on self-perceived job performance", Employee Relations, Vol. 42 No. 3, pp. 626-645. https://doi.org/10.1108/ER-05-2019-0211
How to achieve high performance under stress | Jannell MacAulay | TEDxABQ. (2018). Www.youtube.com. Retrieved November 7, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EETDwk0_ErQ&ab_channel=TEDxTalks
J, P., Machani, P., Agyei, I. T., Suryanarayana, N. V. S., Thandayuthapani, S., & Lourens, M. (2023). Effects of Performance and Target Pressure on the Psychological Well-Being of Corporate Employees. Journal for ReAttach Therapy and Developmental Diversities, 6(8s), 218–227. https://jrtdd.com/index.php/journal/article/view/876
