Stress at work: Using a process model to assist employers to understand the trajectory

Abstract

Successful management of stress at the workplace has become a topic of great interest over the last decade. Motivated by escalating costs, associated workplace injuries and the increasing demands placed on workers in the work context, the need to effectively manage stress within acceptable timeframes and at minimal cost is paramount. According to contemporary models of rehabilitation, the maintenance of a strong and trusting 'bond' between the injured worker and the employer is essential in promoting an efficacious outcome for both parties. In an attempt to provide a greater understanding of the importance of this bond, and to highlight the factors that can impact on the experience of stress at work, a process model is discussed. This model enables the trajectory of stress injuries to be tracked and its implications explored more fully by employers.