1.5 - About University

Stress symptomRating0 (not at all), 5 (very much)9. I pace nervously.10. I imagine or dream terrifying scenes.11. My digestive system sometimes feels like a knotted cord.12. I grind my teeth at night.13. I am frequently angry or irritable.14. I frequently get digestive problems.15. I often feel fatigued for no apparent reason.16. I have frequent headaches for no known organic reason.17. I chronically suffer from cold hands and feet.18. My heart often beats very fast.19. I breathe in short, shallow breaths.20. I feel guilty when I take time out to relax.Add each rating to obtain a total scoreIf you scored over 40, consider one or more of these ideas to reduce your own stress, or to reduce systemsproblems that are contributing to stress within your workgroup:❑❑❑❑❑❑❑Collectively attend a stress reduction workshop that focuses on individual stress-coping techniques.Analyze the stressors in the organizational system in which you work. Which contribute themost stress without contributing to productivity? How can these be reduced? [☛ 2.1 SystemsThinking]Make it okay to discuss stress levels and to use stress reduction methods at workgroup or teammeetings. [☛ 10.8 Ground Rules]Make it okay to take time-outs at work for relaxation. [☛ 15.1 Balance]Celebrate successes. Often, workgroups or teams do not get enough recognition or positive feedback.Hold simple letting-go or venting meetings—simple, because you do not want the administrationof these sessions to become a source of stress! [☛ 5.8 Human Transitions]As a leader, have one-on-one meetings with people who seem to be stressed out. If an individual’sstress level is high, use the Employee Assistance Program or other resources to provide individualswith appropriate support. [☛ 13.1 Coaching]Actions you will take to reduce stress (either your own, or stress within your workgroup or team):Copyright McGraw-Hill 2000. Original purchasers of this book are permitted to photocopy or customize this worksheet by downloading it fromwww.books.mcgraw-hill.com/training/download. The document can then be opened, edited, and printed using Microsoft Word or other word processingsoftware.474 SECTION 15 TOOLS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF