Workplace Stress – Impact On Your Nervous System
- Brainz Magazine
- Nov 30, 2023
- 4 min read
Written by: Christine Exelmans, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
When we think about workplace stress, our minds often conjure up cinematic scenes of chaotic offices, yelling managers, and never-ending phone calls. While these scenarios might be exaggerated, the reality is that stress at work goes beyond the dramatic. Even in seemingly calm environments, the invisible pressures we face can take a toll on our well-being.
Most of us are silently wrestling with the consequences of a dysregulated nervous system. But what exactly is it, and how does it manifest in our day-to-day experiences?
Understanding the dysregulated nervous system
The nervous system, a complex network of nerves and cells, regulates our bodily functions and responses to external stimuli. When dysregulated, this intricate system can lead to a heightened state of arousal or, conversely, a shutdown mode. This dysregulation often stems from prolonged exposure to stress, trauma, or challenging life experiences (which we all tend to accumulate over time).
The roots of a dysregulated nervous system often trace back to early life experiences. It is not limited to the experience of big T Trauma, but can be a consequence of emotional neglect, emotional micro-injuries (or small t trauma) or any other hurtful experience (such as being bullied at school, struggling with self-esteem, friendships that come to an end, etc.) that have not been processed or healed.
Additionally, ongoing exposure to high-pressure environments or challenging interpersonal dynamics in adulthood, which we more often than not find in our intimate relationships, can contribute to dysregulation.
A dysregulated nervous system can manifest in various ways, both physically and emotionally. From chronic fatigue and difficulty concentrating to a tendency to be easily triggered, the symptoms are diverse. It can show up as a persistent sense of unease, making it challenging to relax even in seemingly calm situations.
How our workplaces increase nervous system dysregulation
Understanding the dysregulated nervous system is the first step towards fostering well-being. By integrating certain self-care practices into our lives, we can gradually shift from a state of dysregulation to one of balance and resilience. It's a journey, and each intentional step brings us closer to a more harmonious and regulated existence.
Establishing routines: Creating a daily routine with consistent sleep patterns, regular meals, and moments of relaxation fosters a sense of predictability that can be soothing for a dysregulated nervous system.
Establishing a self-care plan: Engage in mindfulness practices and intentional breathwork to ground yourself in the present moment. Techniques like deep belly breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise is known to positively impact the nervous system. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or any form of movement you enjoy, incorporating physical activity into your routine can promote regulation.
Healthy Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in personal and professional relationships can mitigate ongoing stressors that contribute to dysregulation.
Most of those practices unfortunately clash with modern day working live's expectation. Not only is it difficult to combine our efforts to heal and balance ourselves (through practiced self-care, established routines and enough time for physical activity ) with the demands of our workplace, the dynamic at the workplace itself often actively contributes to the dysregulation.
While it might be hard to change the needs and demands of the business to accommodate employee well-being, today's Leaders can certainly address workplace dynamic.
The absence of apparent chaos doesn't exempt us from stress; rather, it's often the subtle elements that contribute to an overwhelming sense of unease. It's the lack of clarity, attention, and safety that can create a constant undercurrent of stress.
Feeling invisible, as if our presence and contributions don't matter, can be just as stressful as a hectic workplace. A frown from a superior during a meeting, after summoning the courage to speak up, can leave a lasting impact. Sharing an opinion and being dismissed adds layers to the stress we carry daily.
So, how can Leaders address these nuanced stressors and create a healthier work environment? It starts with acknowledging the impact of these subtleties on the well-being of the team. Leaders play a crucial role in fostering a culture of clarity, recognition, and respect.
Here are a few recommendations for Leadership:
Cultivate Clarity Clearly communicate expectations, goals, and feedback. Uncertainty breeds stress, and a lack of clarity can leave employees feeling adrift.
Practice Active Listening Create a space where every voice is heard and valued. Actively listen to your team members, acknowledging their input and perspectives.
Foster a Culture of Appreciation Recognize and celebrate the contributions of individuals. Feeling seen and appreciated diminishes the sense of invisibility that can contribute to stress.
Encourage Constructive Feedback Create an environment where feedback is constructive and fosters growth. Constructive criticism, delivered with empathy, can alleviate the fear of dismissal for sharing opinions.
Prioritize Well-being Incorporate practices that prioritize the well-being of your team. This could include regular check-ins, mindfulness sessions, or other initiatives that promote a positive work environment.
As a Leadership Coach, I specialize in supporting Leaders in creating environments that nurture both professional growth and personal well-being. If you're interested in exploring how coaching can enhance Leadership and mitigate workplace stress, I invite you to connect.
Let's work together to cultivate a workplace where every individual feels valued, heard, and supported, so that there is a chance of healing and well-being.
Christine Exelmans, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
With over 20 years of corporate experience, Christine has honed her skills as a leader, guiding hundreds of individuals, managing large teams and climbing the corporate ladder. Along her journey, she encountered the limitations of traditional leadership approaches and sought a new path—one rooted in self-awareness, consciousness and growth. Driven by her own transformation, Christine is dedicated to helping corporate talent to become the Leaders they wish they had. Her Vision is to transform the corporate workplace into a safe space where everyone can thrive, grow and fully expand.
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