DESK RAGE IS RAISING ITS HEAD- CURB IT

These days "Road Rage" is hot in the air. But increasing job insecurity, redeployment of employees in their middle ages and hire and fire policies being the order of the day, work environments are becoming increasingly volatile and have given rise to a new form of rage-"DESK RAGE".

Unfulfilled job expectations and long work hours have given rise to this new form of workplace violence, which includes screaming, throwing objects, and other serious acts of violence against coworkers.

Non-stop communications technologies, 24/7 routine, reducing workforce and too much responsibility lead to job stress which in turn leads to desk rage.

Many workers and especially the executives at every level feel trapped. They skip vacations and keep quiet about heavy workloads to show their commitment and score over their peers.

Too much of stress gives rise to increased irritability and anxiety. It tells on their health. The worker frequently abstains from work on account of ill health. He/she experiences decreased morale and perceptible changes occur in sleep and eating pattern.
Social isolation is also a major problem for stressed-out workers. Co- workers move away from unhappy and angry employees. They are left alone to fend for themselves with their troubles.

A person slipping into desk rage mode can be identified by the following symptoms:

• Direct or indirect threats of harm.
• Intimidating, belligerent, harassing, bullying, or other inappropriate and aggressive behaviour.
• Making statements that show a fascination with other incidents of workplace violence, or that indicate approval of the use of violence to solve problems.
• Making statements that indicate desperation over family, financial, or other personal problems, to the point of considering suicide.
• Excessive use of drugs or alcohol.
• Extreme changes in normal behavior.
  The first way to get over desk rage is to agree that your stress may be getting out of control and it needs to be tamed.
• Always remember that there is more to life than work.
• Take out time for family life, hobbies or other pleasures that replenish your energy and sense of self-worth.
• Keep a photo of your near and dear ones on your desk to help you keep things in perspective.
• Give priority to your social life. Human contact is one of the most important ways you can relieve stress.
• Maintain positive relationships with family members, friends and co-workers.
• Follow the routine of our very popular TV soaps; they take a break at the drop of a hat. Take a break!
• If you find yourself becoming a NET or computer addict try setting down a daily time limit and wind up early.
• Get away from away from your desk at lunch and don't forget vacations.
• Spend quality time with your family it will recharge your cells. To give out your best, you need to replenish your energy and creativity.
• Take care of your body. Exercise, eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water and get enough sleep.
• Physical activity reduces mental stress, while sleep deprivation, hunger and dehydration drain you physically, increase irritability and impair your concentration.
• Don't be afraid to talk to your supervisor. He or she is in the best position to understand your workload, offer guidance and help set priorities. Also, ask for feedback. You might find that you have been holding yourself to unnecessarily high and unattainable standards.
• Take advantage of company-sponsored counseling services such as stress-relief programs and yoga and exercise classes.
• Finally, if you find that these suggestions don't help, and you continue to feel unhappy and drained, seek professional help.