Many studies suggest employees in the banking sector prevalently undergo high occupational stress affecting physical and mental health.

Many people placed at high positions in the financial sectors undergo poor health due to high-stress environments. The reasons are assumed to be “high security and priority nature of the job”, “lack of personal care time”, “extensive travel”, “high-pressure constraints”, “performance pressure” and “unwanted criticism”. With the advent of technological advancements, globalization, and big evolution in the financial sector, poor mental health is at an all-time high. It is also observed that public sector bank employees have lesser stress as compared to private sector banks.

The banking system is going through an enormous shift in both its structure and function. Newer technologies are leaving a mark on the working environment and lives of employees. A great deal of increase in customer demands, pressure, digital methods, and competition in the market has generated a tense environment to deal with. Not to ignore the additional tasks piling up like Aadhar card linkage, maintaining databases with linked Public information, and election duty appointments of employees are pushing boundaries.

Data by MetLife suggests more than 67% of senior-level executives at any financial institution decide to quit their job within a year due to high-level stress and a poor lifestyle. When asked, 30% of executives defined their job role as “extremely stressful”. As a result, the overall performance of an employee is shadowed. Increased cases of absenteeism, high staff turnover, anxiety, depression, headache, and backache are observed. It is important to set realistic goals for the employees and be precise and clear about achieving them to ensure peace of mind. Setting a target and focusing on one task at a time is a strong strategy to manage stress.

Most individuals fall short in physical activities, especially since the digitization of processes, the work has shifted to computer screens. As a result, eye irritation and posture problems might occur frequently. Exercise is a key element to avoid inactivity and rejuvenate the body. A 15-minute regular workout routine can help the body stay evenly oxygenated, active, and fresh. The brain cells remain calm along with physical well-being due to an increase in levels of serotonin. A dedicated work regime also reduces fatigue, improves posture, gives a break from screen time, and improves concentration levels.

Good health practices

A huge work-related set down associated with financial companies is a lack of appreciation. After devoting quality time and energy to hefty tasks without receiving any praise, the employees might feel dissatisfied. A quick word of appreciation on a task well done can resolve this issue. Feeling valued in a company pushes the employee to deliver the best of their abilities. Every shred of hard work should be appreciated. It is crucial to acknowledge the extra working hours and duties of an employee. One of the prominent concerns is the leave policies.

Due to high demand, financial sectors may fall short of a healthy leave policy which is primitive to maintain a healthy physical and mental being. Inability to rest and recover the mind from stressful tasks can lead to depression in the longer run. Employees must be encouraged to rest and have a healthy time off. Another absolute necessity to reduce the chances of health issues is maintaining a work-life balance. Well-being should be a priority at all points in time.

To attain mental peace, creative activities, rejuvenating walks, or good music can help. Nature is meant to be heard and felt. Nature should be given a priority. Many people have low levels of vitamin D due to indoor work environments. Breeze can also act as a great mood refresher and increase work concentration. On top of that, the change in eating habits needs to be analyzed. Unhealthy habits such as smoking, drinking, and extra caffeine are short-term solutions leading to stress addition.

In the long term causing even more harm can be caused. A primary step to stay ahead in job roles is to manage time efficiently. Time management is a struggle for many. Spending long hours in front of a computer can lead to heart problems, eye irritation, or even cancer in the long term. Therefore, it is essential to reduce screen time and manage work more smartly. Prioritizing important tasks while scheduling the less important ones can help. Don’t wait to be free. Make slots in the busy schedule for necessary breaks.

Water breaks must be included. a human body is made up of 73% water. Proper water intake helps in focusing on important tasks, staying alert, and making quick decisions. Research suggests 2% increased effectiveness in work by staying hydrated. Taking proper rest is crucial to recover from a hectic day. A continuous sleep of 6-8 hours is a must to revive the body for yet another day with the same potential. Inadequate rest leads to tiredness, errors, and mind blocking. The life of employees in financial sectors can improve to a great extent by taking small steps in the right direction.

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