Work-related stress can impact entire family

While five o'clock signals the end of the work day and the beginning of a carefree evening for some, that is not the case for those who take their work worries home. Continuous work-related stress can have serious physical and psychological consequences, said Dr. Catherine Romero, assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

"It is a consequence of American urban life. Longer work hours and busier lives have contributed to the load of work-related stress," she said.

"If people do not have the appropriate coping skills, they may take this stress out on their family," said Romero.

The first task is to take care of yourself, the physician said. "Without that, it's very hard to take good care of your family if you are not able to take good care of yourself."

Romero recommends finding an avocation that can help dissipate stress. She suggested sports or community activities or the use of relaxation techniques to help one cope.

"Having a friend or counselor to whom you can talk about work-related stress can also help, and proper diet and exercise can also help in lowering stress levels, she added.

Romero offers the following tips to deal with workrelated can impact entire family

stress:

-- Create some time -- even five or 10 minutes -- at work each day that is just for you. It can be arriving five minutes early or doing something positive for yourself during your lunch break.

-- Avoid office conflicts, if possible, and resolve any conflicts with co-workers promptly.

-- Keep office stressors at work, and don't bring the stress home.

Although some may consider work-related stress inconsequential, cumulative stress can lead to heart disease, depression and anxiety disorders, she said.

Knowing the warning signs of depression, such as poor sleep, appetite changes and feelings of guilt or worthlessness, is important when dealing with stress, the physician said.

For those who bring their work home, Romero advised keeping a balance between work and family life.

"The key is moderation. Be sure to make some time for yourself and for your family," she said.

Romero recommended that family members ask one another how the day went. Be willing to listen and be empathic, she said.

"Others in the family need to be aware of the stress level in the lives of loved ones. That can help them recognize when a stress problem needs the help of a mental health professional."