It is very essential to manage workplace stress because it affects not only the individual and the organization, but also the society at large. This article discusses the different categories and stages of workplace stress and suggests various approaches to manage it for the betterment of the individual and the organization.

Today workplace stress is becoming a major issue and a matter of concern for the employees and the organizations. It has become a part of life for the employees, as life today has become so complex at home as well as outside that it is impossible to avoid stress. Experts opine that stress is the main cause for all the problems of the modern world that affects both the individual and organizational health. In the present-day competitive environment, all service-oriented organizations believe their employees to be the most important assets of the company. Organizations recognize that stress management is a very essential and important tool for achieving bottom line growth. Organizations have to pay a very heavy price for stress because it affects productivity due to increased absenteeism, sick leave, medical costs, and high turnover rates. Indeed, recruiting and retaining employees are the major challenges for any organization today. Hence, the employer should identify the root cause of stress in the organization and provide a stress-free environment to the employees. He must organize stress management programs at the workplace, which should deal with the employee's physical and mental well-being.

Stress has been defined by many in different ways as it takes different forms depending on the situations. According to Douglas (1980), stress is defined as any action or situation that places special physical or psychological demands upon a person. According to Van Fleet (1988), stress is caused when a person is subjected to unusual situations, demands, extreme expectations, or pressures that are difficult to handle. Workplace stress can be defined as the most harmful physical and emotional responses that occur within a human being when the requirements of the job do not match his capabilities, resources, or even needs. Some experts argue that moderate amount of both physical and mental stress is required for a normal and healthy growth. A little degree of stress at workplace energizes the employees psychologically and physically, as it motivates them to learn new skills and master their jobs resulting in increased productivity. The problem arises only when stress is not managed properly.

HRM Review Magazine, Stress Management, Vardhman Group of Companies, SP Oswal, Performance Management, Performance Consultant, Behavioral Interviews, Performing Culture, Organizational Culture, human Resources, Business Strategy, Strategic Management.