Work-related stress occurs when there is a mismatch between the demands of the job and the resources and capabilities of the individual worker to meet those demands. Stress is, on average, the costliest of all work-related illnesses in terms of working days lost. Studies in this area distinguish between stress and pressure, where pressure can be defined as a subjective feeling of tension that is triggered by a potentially stressful situation. However, where pressure exceeds an individual’s ability to cope, the result is stress.
Set in a financial institution these scripted scenarios highlight the pressures faced by a team working in collections and arrears support during times of personal insolvency faced by their clients. Themes of workplace stress and individual resilience are explored and applied to any work environment, including your own.