Tired of working the graveyard shift or struggling to juggle a job and schoolwork?
Finding a healthy life-work balance is never easy but it’s so important for your mental health. Whatever your work-related stress, we’re here to help.
“I’m working too many hours and I don’t have any time to hang out with friends. It’s really affecting my social life and it’s getting me down.”
Too much work and no play? We hear you. Talk to your boss to see if you can reduce your working hours if you can afford to. If not, why not see if your boss will change your shift patterns – you might be able to compress your contracted hours into less days, giving you more free evenings or days off. If your employer won’t budge and you’re finding it difficult to cope, maybe it’s time to look for another job with more flexibility. Click here to start looking for your next career move!
“My job is super-busy, and I don’t always get a break. I’m exhausted by the end of my shift.”
You are legally entitled to a break under UK law. If you’re under 18, you should get a 30 min break if you work over 4.5 hours. Over 18? If your working day is at least six hours long, you have the right to a break of at least 20 minutes. Read more about your rest break rights here.
“I love my job but not my boss. She’s a bully and the staff are all scared of her.”
Bullying in the workplace is never OK. Request a meeting with her to discuss your concerns or speak to another employee or your company’s Human Resources department if you don’t feel able to speak to your boss. This can feel scary, but you have a right to work in a safe environment and good companies will have an anti-bullying policy in place to support you. If you need more support or advice on how to deal with a workplace bully, click here.
“I’ve just started a new job, but I don’t think I’m very good at it. I keep making mistakes and my co-workers are getting frustrated with me. I feel so down and totally hopeless.”
Don’t be so hard on yourself. This is all new to you and it will take time to learn the ropes. Your colleagues will have struggled when they first started, too – nobody walks into a brand-new job and becomes Employee of the Month on their first day. Ask your manager for more training and support. You can also chat to your colleagues and ask questions about certain tasks or procedures you’re finding tricky to gain more knowledge. Be patient with yourself and give it time – you’ll soon find your feet! Looking for more ways to build confidence and gain skills? Click here for advice.
“I’m working a part-time job alongside a full-time college course. It’s so hard to juggle both! I don’t know how I’m going to find the time to study or relax…”
Balancing a job with a full-time course is tough, both mentally and physically. Planning your time effectively can help alleviate stress – create a weekly timetable, identify your free time, and organise it into dedicated study and downtime slots. Learn to say no to extra shifts if you can afford to and make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep and eating a healthy diet. It’s important to look after yourself when you’re working so hard. For more advice on taking care of your mental and physical well-being, click here.
