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How can I maintain a healthy mental state in a high stress job where I have to constantly be on guard?

10 Answers
Last Updated: 05/30/2016 at 7:45am
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Lindsay Scheinerman, MA, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

My work with clients is to help them recognize and build on their strengths to find solutions for the conflicts presented in their lives.

Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
April 21st, 2015 3:17pm
When you are working a stressful Job such as a guard , you should take a break every once in a while like every month go on a vacation for 3 days if possible so you can give your mind a rest , and. When you come back you will be fully perfectly functioning as you had refreshed your mind
nancyb03
May 19th, 2015 6:19pm
i feel like i have a really hard time at work in keeping myself calm and sane. i am constantly defending my work and having to deal with hundreds of people on a weekly basis, including a large chunk of revolving parent volunteers. that's a lot of different personalities, work ethics, and schedules coming at me. it causes me anxiety and stress since i feel like i'm always behind and always interrupted. to try and manage this, i've done my best to schedule my day down to exactly what job needs to get done. i have people submit requests online for work and the respective deadlines and specs for each request. with a clear list, i'm able to see exactly what needs to get done and when. people can also access it so they know what i have to do and when i'm going to have their work finished. this allows me to plan my day to have a specific end time, instead of a variable one. it gives me something to look forward to, and helps me see an end to a really stressful day. when i get home and on days that i don't work, i really try and do things that i enjoy by myself before i do things for/with the family. that hair trim that i keep skipping, new manicure, even a short drive around the city, or a walk around the mall. that way i feel like i've taken care of me, before taking care of someone else, which is what i do all week at work!
Incandecentembrace
February 25th, 2015 12:54am
focus on yourself, and don't take anything personally. Just do your job to the best of your ability
4you247
May 30th, 2015 12:55am
Try to switch off when you go home, completely from the stresses of work. It will be easier if you give yourself big breaks in the evenings from this high level stress so it does not feel as intense. Have a bth, chill out with your family etc to keep you calm!:)
PoliteOcean
September 6th, 2015 8:00pm
The best thing you can do if you are in a high stress job is to first check with your Human Resource department and see if they have someone you can talk with and discuss your feelings with. Often when you work in a high stress job, this is something that is offered to employees. If you don't have this available to you, then perhaps seeking advice through a professional counselor or therapist will help you with your feelings.
Anonymous
September 29th, 2015 1:44am
Stop, breathe, focus. Maybe not in that order, but you'll understand once you do it. High ending jobs with being constantly aware of your surroundings can sound like a place where self time isnt possible but really, its possible. you just need to see it in a different way.
SJA18
November 9th, 2015 9:23am
You can try to find something to unwind from the work part lots of people prefer going out with friends or going to the spa or gym there are plenty of things to do.
Mountstuart
December 14th, 2015 7:21pm
I deal with this every day. The number one most important thing I can offer is to leave your work at work. When you walk out the doors make every effort to drop everything pertaining to work and forget about it. It is hard sometimes, especially if you need to work on stuff at home. However, it really helps to do this. I do not discuss work outside of work. That helps me, but maybe it won't help you. If you get breaks at work, try to exercise (walk/run) during your lunch or break. That will help. If you experience trauma, seek help. Your employer most likely offers connections to counseling (if medical, fire or police). If you need help, seek it out. Never be afraid to seek it out.
Anonymous
April 19th, 2016 5:17am
Put your energy focused only on you and do your best in everythin you do not because you want to please others or to impress ither people but because you find fulfillment in doing your job well. Putting energy on others and what others think is wasteful energy that will only drain you.
Greatlistener87
- Expert in Work Stress
May 30th, 2016 7:45am
There is always time to work and time to relax. Make sure you have both equally to maintain your stress level.