• Defining what we mean by stress
• The differences between healthy and unhealthy stress
• The signs of possible stress in an individual
• Identifying the typical causes of stress
• Potential long-term and short-term effects of stress on an individual
• Identifying practical techniques that can be used by individuals to manage their time and reduce stress
• Use effective communication skills to minimise stress in oneself and others

Who should attend?
Anyone who would like to cope better with the stressors they face at work in the environment of local government.

Learning method
A mix of discussion and practical exercises.

Workshop content

Introduction and objectives
Session 1: stress awareness
Why stress and pressure are important issues at work
The importance of stress awareness
Group discussion
Session 2: what is stress?
Definition and model of stress
Types of stress - healthy and unhealthy
The stress curve and the impact of pressure on performance
Group discussion
Session 3: recognising the signs and understanding the effects of stress
What are the signs?
The effects of stress on thoughts, feelings, body and actions
Long and short-term effects of the different types of stress
Small group exercises
Session 4: identifying the causes of stress
Common causes of unhealthy stress
The difference between internal and external pressures
Beliefs and their effect on our experience of being stressed
What can be changed and influenced?
‘Letting go’ of what cannot be changed
Small group exercises
Session 5: stress management at work
Pressures specific to our jobs and organisation and coping strategies
The links between time and stress management
Practical time management principles for effective interaction
Individual exercises
Session 6: stress management techniques
Training for stress fitness
Relaxation on the run – practical exercises for instant effects in busy time
Personal strategies for managing stress
Individual exercises
Session 7: effective communication
Working with others to achieve results
Dealing with stress carriers
Managing the communication process with key people
Framework and principles for effective interaction
Small group exercises
Session 8: stress coaching exercise
Person-centred practical problem solving
Key skills
Practical exercises
Session 9: action planning
Planning future actions back in the workplace