The Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) has observed that work-related stress cases in Pune have gone up drastically in the last two years. It attributes the sudden spurt to high level of competitiveness and lifestyle changes.
Former president of IPS and national vice-president of the Indian Medical Association, Dr Devendra Shirole told DNA, “Many lost their jobs during the recession. Fearing loss again when they got their jobs back, led to increased stress levels and anxiety.”
“Even the change in lifestyle because of profession, especially in couples, is a cause for depression. Disparity between private and government sector employees about pay scale and better lifestyle is another reason for stressful work atmosphere,” he added. IPS member and consultant psychiatric Dr Hemant Chandorkar said the number of work-related stress cases has tripled in the past three years. He cited the migrant population coming in search for jobs as a contributory factor to the rise in cases.
Maharashtra Institute of Mental Health (MIMH) deputy director and senior psychiatrist, Dr Krishna Kadam, told DNA that a street play was recently staged to spread awareness on work-related stress.
The symptoms include insomnia, addiction, depression, irritability, sleep disturbance, low immunity or haemoglobin or iron levels, excessive smoking, taking to alcohol, absenteeism and family discord, he said.
He said almost 50 cases are reported every month and is mostly seen in professionals who are in the productive age group. Kadam cited other symptoms related to stress such as anxiety disorder, neglect of children, refusal to work beyond deadlines and increase in absenteeism.
“Work-related stress is detected through diagnostic tools and tests and is treated with medication and regular relaxation techniques. Six to eight counselling sessions are needed for the patient to get back to normal life. In fact, we have also noticed relapse cases that occur when the workplace atmosphere is not suitable,” he said.
Kadam stressed the need for awareness workshops and seminars in workplaces, especially in the private sector, where competition and stress levels are high compared to government sector. If not treated on time, can lead to severe depression, forgetfulness, overstressed mind, and also withdrawal of oneself from the situation. He said regular exercise, yoga and meditation can help.
The director of the counselling centre of Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Ashwini Latkar, said those who are not able to express anger to colleagues are seen getting irritable with their family members. This makes them vulnerable to loneliness.
“It has been noticed that many women vent their anger on children by thrashing them, which leads to guilt and depression,” she said, adding that taking up a hobby helps in avoiding stress.
