Stress has always been a feature of many U.S. workplaces, but it seems to be increasing – possibly because of the economic pressure placed on businesses to do more with less, and to make fewer workers do the work that was previously accomplished by larger workforces.

In addition to the obvious psychological discomfort, health experts note that stress causes physical effects as well: weight gain, high blood pressure and an increased risk of a heart attack.

Besides winning the lottery and retiring to Aruba, there are a few attainable techniques for reducing work-related stress.

The American Council on Exercise recommends:

• Forgetting about past assignments that may not have gone well and focusing instead on current tasks.
• Being friendly and social at work.
• Make an effort to communicate clearly with co-workers so as to limit misunderstandings and the frustration they can generate.
• Accentuating the positive instead of dwelling on problems.
• Eating well and exercising.
• Communicating frequently with your manager.

If those don’t work and unhappiness at work is chronic and insurmountable, there’s always the last resort: exploring other job opportunities. Keep in mind, though the old age about the grass being greener...