As an individual, you can combat work-related stress and make your work environment a happier, healthier experience.  Here are some ideas...

Take back some control.

There are lots of things that happen at work that are not within your control. But, try to look at what is within your control. You may not be able to control events that happen around you, but you can control your response to those events. Ask yourself,

• where can I get control in my work environment?
• where can I get some job satisfaction and job challenge?
• what can I do with what I've got?

Look for new challenges.

Try to find something each day that provides a challenge, even if it is just a different way of looking at routine tasks. Challenge creates excitement. It motivates and revitalizes and puts the wind back in our sails.

With down-sizing and restructuring, many have found the definition of their job has changed. If your role at work has drastically altered course, remember, you still have choices. You can sit back and say look what they've done to me and be miserable. Or, you can look at new opportunities and new challenges to put your positive energy toward.

Strike a balance between work and play.

In any stressful work situation, it is important to maintain a balanced life. Remember you are more than your occupation. Enrich your life in other areas. Involve yourself in activities outside of work. If you perform well at other things, it provides a better perspective at work. Gain strength from the areas in your life where things are going well. This will make you a happier person at work.

Derive support from colleagues.

We all need a lot more support from our colleagues in the workplace these days. Little things mean a lot, like potluck lunches and birthday celebrations. We also don't laugh as much as we used to in the workplace, yet a sense of humour can be vital. In work environments such as social service agencies where counsellors listen to horror stories every day, laughing, joking, and informal social links at work are critical.

Decide that you will laugh at whatever you can laugh at and take advantage of the mutual support of colleagues.

Respect your fellow workers.

While it is important to establish the support of colleagues at work, you do not have to be friends with all your co-workers. In fact, you may find some personalities difficult or annoying. By keeping the work function in mind, it is often easier to let go of some of the animosities related to personality traits we may find unpleasant. Make an effort to think of something useful or valuable about the person you dislike. They also may have something to teach you...even if the something is simply patience. In problem situations, honest, open communication will help you to understand each other and resolve issues without allowing resentment to build.

Again communication, understanding, respect and negotiation are all skills that are helpful in dealing with difficult co-workers