Allostatic Load: How Crucial is Stress Management to your Health?

Working professional showing signs of work related stress resulting in chronic illness

In a fast-paced working environment, stress is regrettable inevitable. Whether it is managing stakeholders, deadlines, or balancing other commitments, chronic workplace-related stress is more relevant than ever before.

What is Allostatic Load?

Allostatic load is the “wear and tear on the body” that results from exposure to repeated or chronic stress. This accumulation of stress, without adequate recovery, can result in serious health problems, while also impacting decision-making and overall well-being. (Pfaltz & Schnyder, 2023)

How Does Chronic Stress Lead to Allostatic Load in the Body?

When our body activates our stress response system, our “fight-or-flight” senses kick in, with adrenaline and cortisol being increased. If this sense of stress is sustained, our body can remain in this mechanism for a prolonged period of time, resulting in physical and mental fatigue. Over time, this can culminate in burnout, anxiety, or an overall weakened immune system. (Kerr et al, 2020)

Methods of regulating work-related stress

Managing stress is a difficult task. For an individual to overcome chronic work-related stress, a “work smarter, not harder” approach could be applied. Some habits that can be taken include:

- Taking strategic breaks (1-2 minutes) by setting an alarm on your phone or smartwatch, set it for every 60-90 minutes to get some fresh air, do a breathing exercise to reset yourself, or do some light stretching
- Attempt to create a mindset where tasks are prioritized based on importance, rather than urgency
- Prior to stressful interactions or meetings, listen to some comfort music

Invest in Wellness: Why Should Employers Tackle Allostatic Load?

Employers who create environments that facilitate employees being able to manage allostatic load can see benefits with respect to:

- Decreased absenteeism linked to stress-related illnesses
- Higher engagement and overall productivity from employees, as they don’t exhibit fatigue
- Decreased turnover due to employees seeking new opportunities where stress does not play a significant role

Stress at work is unavoidable, so it is important to try and address it where you can reduce the probability of developing chronic stress.