The Business Journal Online February 2000 Stress Management Tools Keep Execs, Companies Healthy Stress may be a necessary evil in the business world, but the negative side effects of unmanaged stress are not necessary. According to the American Heart Association, chronic, elevated stress may be a contributing risk factor for heart disease and stroke, and may be associated with increased cholesterol and high blood pressure. Another important consideration is the toll that chronic stress takes on business. Without mechanisms for employees to cope with stress, the Heart Association suggests, company profitability can be affected in the form of employee days off, doctor bills and disability claims. The American Heart Association offers a program called Heart at Work, which provides a kit on stress management that is designed to teach employees how to manage stress at work and at home.
Speakers are also available to talk to employee groups.
Although the demands of owning and operating Uler-Kuchmaner Insurance Agency in Boardman keep Andrew W. Kuchmaner busy, he often finds time at midday to relieve his stress by exercising at the YMCA in downtown Youngstown. I keep down my weight and remove my stress while I'm working out. This is a perfect time for me. It rejuvenates me for when I go back to work. Stealing minutes away from what would normally be his lunch hour also works for Robert Felter, medical director of Tod Children's Hospital, Youngstown.