In this challenging economy, even those who are fortunate enough to keep their jobs can feel stressed by increased workloads and uncertainty at work. The Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC) has released a white paper detailing ways that employees can manage work-related stress with greater self-advocacy and interventions.

More information about avoiding burnout in the workplace will be presented at DMEC's 14th Annual International Conference July 19 - 22, 2009 in Portland, Oregon.

Key recommendations include:

1. Identify community resources for financial counseling, childcare or eldercare issues, or other concerns that may impact your life before something happens.
2. Find an outside activity that involves positive, healthy interaction with others.
3. Acknowledge the reality of the situation. Rather than hope for a "miracle solution" begin with accepting things as they are and strive toward workable strategies.
4. Seek advice from a trusted or admired peer on how to manage work and life demands.
5. Good nutrition and exercise are paramount. Find time to exercise - even 10 minutes a day can improve your health and decrease stress.
6. Establish family mealtimes for better interaction. Families also are great reinforcements for better health, wellness, and self-care.
7. Develop healthy sleep habits. If you're working two jobs, try to find time for a "sleep break" in order to avoid physical and mental exhaustion.
8. Observe and learn from your own signals when you feel close to "hitting the wall," and determine what you can do (take a break, avoid a tough conversation, or shift your focus) to minimize stress.

For additional tips or to read the full report, visit http://tinyurl.com/r3bmp9