Since April is “National Stress Awareness Month” and we’ll bet every single reader is familiar with stress, let’s get into it and see if there is help to be found. First of all, how is the word defined? We found quite a few definitions and the one that struck us as most authentic was at “The American Institute of Stress”. Who knew there was an institute? Interesting!! Here’s a quote from the website at stress dot org:
“Stress is the body’s nonspecific response to any demand – pleasant or unpleasant. While people often define stress differently, common definitions include “physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension” and “a condition or feeling experienced when a person perceives that demands exceed their available personal and social resources.”
“Most people associate stress with distress — the negative kind of stress that causes discomfort and harm. However, there is also a positive kind of stress called eustress, which helps improve performance. For example, the stress of preparing for a job interview can motivate focus and effort, while being absolutely overwhelmed at work can lead to decreased productivity.”
Demands Exceed Resources! That definition pretty much nailed it. Stress can be financial, it can be health related, it can be family related, work related, and basically any of the situations where the individual feels that the demands life is giving us exceed our resources to cope with the demands. Stress is real, and it can put wear and tear on the body, the mind, and on our relationships with others.
On top of that, we have the fears handed to us by the “news”. The political situation in the US is a battlefield right now. No matter which ‘side’ readers may prefer, if the news is causing unneeded stress, it might be time to turn it off and find some good music.
Stress in the Workplace
We went to the National Institute of Health (NIH) for help in understanding how the workplace can help its employees in dealing with stress. We have mentioned in previous writings AMS’ free Employee Assistance Program. This is a program of the NIH. Here below is a quote from the NIH article:
“April marks National Stress Awareness Month and this year it coincides with a very challenging time in our country. Stress can affect your body, thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Being able to recognize common symptoms of stress can help you manage them. Stress that’s left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
“Incivility and conflict in the workplace can lead to increased stress levels. As stress levels among staff increase, productivity suffers. When staff are stressed, their ability to objectively deal with emotionally charged situations decreases and all of this can fuel existing conflict and lead to even more stress.
“A kind and inclusive workplace that fosters civility can mitigate adverse outcomes for staff and improve overall organizational effectiveness.”
Employees are Stakeholders
At AMS Fulfillment we put a great deal of effort into creating a kind and inclusive workplace. We care about our employees and their well-being, and we do consider our employees stakeholders in our business. We’re proud of our free higher education and training classes, taking place during work hours. Quite a few of our employees take advantage of these classes and we’re happy to see the participation.
We also are very happy to offer our employees the Employee Assistance Program free of charge. This program helps employees and their families address a wide range of personal and work-related issues. First of all, this program is confidential and voluntary. Some of the issues addressed are mental health, substance abuse, family and relationship issues, financial and legal issues, and work-related issues. The EAP will provide short-term confidential counseling and referrals for longer-term treatment; workshops and training on topics like stress management, communication and conflict resolution; and 24/7 helplines for immediate access to support and guidance.
Coping With Stress
Yes, there is no doubt that every one of us will experience stressful times. Whether at home, or at work, or on the highway, or when tuned in to the ‘news’, there will be times when the demand exceeds the resources. The human family has found a number of ways to cope with the overload. Some get help from exercise, hiking, or time in a beautiful outdoor environment. Others may find relief in meditation and prayer, conversation with a friend, escape into a good book or movie, a favorite food, or that wonderful three letter word… nap! We do find our various ways to cope with stress and we make it through the day.
At AMS we put a lot of thought and care into creating a positive and supportive work environment and the reward we receive is satisfied employees that stay with us sometimes for years. During this commemorative month and throughout the year we encourage our employees to take advantage of the EAP. The Program is open to all employees and their families year-round and 24/7. It can be helpful to have someone to talk to, free of charge, for counseling and assistance when the stress gets to be more than we can handle by ourselves. Professional help with stress is one of the benefits of being an AMS employee.
Our New Offering
In 2024, AMS offered Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace to our associates! This month, April 2025, we are offering it again! We hope to meet the minimum participation!
Description: “Examines risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems and how to respond appropriately. Emphasis on mental health problems and crises for all individuals and environments with additional information on support and resources in the work environment. Upon successful completion of this course, students will receive a NCBH Mental Health First Aid Certificate.”
Mental health first aid training in the workplace provides several benefits, including: increased employee well-being, reduced stigma around mental health issues, improved ability to identify and support colleagues experiencing mental health concerns, potentially leading to higher productivity, lower absenteeism, and a more positive work environment. Key benefits:
Early intervention: Employees trained in mental health first aid can recognize early signs of mental health issues and provide initial support, potentially preventing problems from escalating.
Reduced stigma: By promoting open conversation about mental health, training helps to destigmatize mental illness, encouraging individuals to seek help when needed.
Improved employee morale: Knowing that colleagues are trained to support them can create a sense of safety and belonging, fostering a more positive work environment.
Enhanced support network: A wider network of trained individuals can provide more comprehensive support to employees experiencing mental health challenges.
Increased productivity: Early intervention and improved mental well-being can lead to higher productivity levels among employees.
Reduced absenteeism: By addressing mental health concerns promptly, training can help minimize time off work due to mental health issues.
Identify signs of mental health distress: Learn to recognize potential symptoms of common mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress.
Provide initial support: Offer a listening ear, provide basic emotional support, and help individuals access appropriate resources.
Guide individuals to further support: Direct colleagues to professional help, employee assistance programs, or other relevant support services
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AMS Fulfillment is a Certified B Corporation, dedicated to People and Planet before Profit. We work to B the Change we wish to see in the world.
