Dealing with the Stress and Anxiety of Change

Change, stress and anxiety go hand in hand. We are all subject to stress in varying degrees and, in fact, we actually need some stress to function. But what is undue stress or anxiety? It is when individuals feel they are under pressure and unable to cope. They may feel like they have no control over their situation. Each new problem or unwelcome incident, however trivial, only confirms the feeling that things are out of control and, worse, may never be under control again. Managers need to be able to recognize stress and anxiety in their staff and help their employees to recognize it so they can begin to overcome it. A good indicator of stress is a prolonged change in a person's normal pattern of behavior.

Possible negative reactions to stress that you may see in your staff are:

• Physical illness
• Depression or anxiety
• Loss of self-confidence
• Aggressive behavior
• Defensive attitudes
• Absenteeism & tardiness
• Decrease in productivity

Stress affects individuals rather than groups, but it can be infectious. If you see stress or anxiety building in a staff member or your team, the following actions may help:

• Create opportunities for people to express their fears and worries, and listen sympathetically
• Provide regular information about progress being made to implement specific changes
• Involve staff members in planning the introduction of the changes as much as possible
• Keep close enough to the staff to be aware of rumors and counter those rumors whenever possible
• Try to ensure that no one feels left out
• Take time to meet with those having difficulties, helping them manage their stress
• Suggest the Employee Assistance Program to your staff member
• Acknowledge positive contributions made by staff

For any managerial concerns, call our EAP Program at 1-800-769-9819 or the Bureau of Human Resources at www.maine.gov/bhr/sos or Employee Health and Benefits at www.maine.gov/beh

Adapted from Successfully Managing Change, George Hardy, 1997, Barron's Educational Series, Inc. and 1001 Ways to Energize Employees, Bob Nelson, 1997, Workman Publishing Company, Inc.