Five Strategies to Manage Toxic Stress in the Library Workplace
Toxic Stress
Refers to prolonged and intense stressors that overwhelm an individual's ability to cope effectively, leading to adverse physical and mental health outcomes
Libraries have long been regarded as sanctuaries of tranquility, providing a peaceful haven for individuals seeking refuge from life's pressures. However, in today's stressful world, even libraries are not immune to the impact of toxic stress.
Toxic stress, a chronic form of stress that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope effectively, can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health.
Understanding Toxic Stress
Toxic stress refers to prolonged and intense stressors that overwhelm an individual's ability to cope effectively, leading to adverse physical and mental health outcomes. This chronic stress can arise from various sources such as work pressure, financial difficulties, relationship challenges, or traumatic experiences. When left unaddressed, toxic stress can significantly impact overall well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, physical ailments, and impaired cognitive functioning.
Signs of a Toxic Work Environment
To effectively manage toxic stress, it's crucial to recognize the signs of a toxic work environment. These signs may include:
- Harassment or bullying
- Threatening or passive-aggressive behavior from managers or coworkers
- Behavior that excludes certain individuals
- Harassment or discrimination based on gender, race, or other factors
- Unsafe working conditions or unrealistic workloads
- Coworkers getting away with inappropriate behavior
Coping Strategies
Here are my top 5 strategies to manage toxic stress in the workplace.
1. Set and Maintain Boundaries:
One of the first steps in managing toxic stress is setting clear boundaries. In a library setting, this can mean establishing limits on your workload, ensuring that you take regular breaks, and resisting the urge to bring work-related stress into the library with you. Remember that it's okay to say no to additional tasks or responsibilities if they are contributing to your stress levels.
2. Understand that it’s Not Your Fault:
It's essential to remind yourself that the toxic stress you may be experiencing is not your fault. Negative workplace environments or external stressors are not within your control, but how you respond to them is. While maintaining a positive attitude and seeking solutions when possible can be helpful, it's crucial to recognize that the responsibility for a toxic environment lies with those perpetuating it, not with you.
3. Focus on Your Goals/Work:
Focusing on your goals and the tasks at hand can provide a sense of purpose and direction, helping to counteract the negative effects of toxic stress. Set achievable objectives for your work, break tasks into manageable steps, and celebrate your accomplishments along the way. This approach can help you maintain a positive outlook and a sense of control.
4. Have an End-of-Work Routine to Unwind:
Creating a routine to unwind after work is vital for managing toxic stress. Consider establishing a calming end-of-day ritual that helps you transition from work to relaxation mode. This could include taking a leisurely walk in nature, enjoying a hot shower, or connecting with friends and loved ones. This routine can serve as a buffer between the demands of work and the serenity of the library. My end-of-work routine includes shutting down the computer at a set time, taking a hot shower, and spending time with my family.
5. Engage in Stress Coping Strategies:
Incorporating stress-coping strategies into your daily life can significantly reduce the impact of toxic stress. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or regular physical activity can help you manage stress more effectively.
Mine is journaling, I practice journaling almost every day and sometimes twice a day. It helps me with placing all of my thoughts down on paper and removing the excess weight that brings to my mind.
By implementing these coping strategies you can focus on yourself and navigate the challenges of toxic stress. It is also important to know when you need to leave your workplace because of the toxic stress you are experiencing. If no changes are taking place. Discuss your concerns with your supervisors or directors and talk to family members or friends about your concerns and the potential of leaving your job to ensure that your mental health is not compromised.
