SAIF releases relaxation videos for the most stressful time of year

While stress can always be an issue, it can feel especially difficult to manage this time of year. From end-of-year deadlines, to holiday commitments, to financial concerns, it seems everyone has something causing stress. But regardless of whether your stress is due to your personal or professional life, it can be a workplace safety hazard.

According to a Colorado study, employees who reported high stress were 22 percent more likely to suffer a work-related injury.  

"If your mind is on your stressor, you may miss a safety precaution or a danger signal," said Sabrina Freewynn, Total Worker Health consultant at SAIF. "This could lead to an injury to yourself or a co-worker."  

In addition, long-term stress contributes to poor health, which is why SAIF is urging everyone to take a relaxation break.   

"Just taking a few minutes to relax, breathe deeply, and focus on something calming can help reduce stress," said Freewynn. "We hope these videos help workers take a moment to breathe so they can then be a bit more mindful on the job."  

Videos featuring scenes from around Oregon-including the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Silver Falls, and Bruce Starker Arts Park-are now available at saif.com/relax. SAIF will continue to add videos over time.  

In addition to taking a relaxation break, Freewynn offers additional suggestions on how to manage stress:

• Take a walk or get other physical activity
• Eat good nutrition
• Improve your sleep habits
• Talk to a friend or professional
• Practice deep breathing techniques
• Make a gratitude list
• Drink a cup of tea  

"When you take time to collect your thoughts and slow your breathing, it helps you manage your stress and improves your safety," Freewynn added.  

Check out saif.com/relax for more information on managing stress, including tips for employers who want to support their employees.   

About SAIF

SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.