Twentieth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations

Abstract

When an employee is stressed, their mental health suffers, which can impact organizational processes, and ultimately the organization’s financial performance. Although some employees exhibit difficulties coping with pressure, there are also employees who remain productive and healthy when faced with stressful situations. This paper analyzes why certain employees are equipped to navigate stressful and complex situations better than others and what coping strategies are most effective. To answer these questions, a survey was distributed to 255 working professionals across a variety of industries. According to the data, self-efficacy, social support and employer aid in stress management contributed to high levels of resilience. Results also indicated that an employee’s psychological well-being is directly related to high levels of resilience, self-efficacy and strong social support networks. Furthermore, analysis revealed that only resilience could mitigate feelings of extreme stress or overwhelm. It was also determined that while high levels of psychological well-being increase productivity, high levels of extreme stress or overwhelm decrease productivity. This study advocates for the cultivation of a supportive organizational climate where leaders can proactively assist employees to overcome stressors through social support, communication and education. This study also promotes human resource interventions to accelerate an employee’s ability to bounce back from both personal and workplace challenges.