Most of us expect a certain level of pressure in our jobs. Deadlines, busy seasons, learning curves — these come with the territory. In fact, a little pressure can even be motivating. But when that pressure tips into something more serious — something that starts to affect your health, your sleep, your relationships, or your overall wellbeing — it’s no longer just “part of the job.”
Workplace stress that goes unchecked can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even long-term physical and mental health conditions. Yet many employees push through in silence, fearing that speaking up might be seen as weakness — or worse, might put their job at risk. In some cases, constant pressure and unreasonable demands are used as a tool to squeeze someone out, prompting them to resign or underperform. If you find yourself in that situation, consulting an unfair dismissal lawyer may be a step worth considering — especially if you’re being edged out due to stress-related absences or complaints.
The good news is, you’re not alone. And there are constructive steps you can take when workplace pressure becomes more than just a rough patch.
Recognising When It’s More Than Just a Busy Week
Workplace pressure can be sneaky. It doesn’t always come on suddenly — sometimes it builds slowly, over months or even years. So how do you know when it’s crossed a line?
Here are some tell-tale signs that the pressure is no longer healthy:
- You dread work on a daily basis, even on weekends or during holidays
- You’re losing sleep over work-related problems
- You’re experiencing anxiety, irritability, or emotional exhaustion
- You’re skipping meals or overeating as a coping mechanism
- You’ve become socially withdrawn or stopped enjoying things outside work
- Your performance is slipping, even though you’re trying harder than ever
It’s easy to tell ourselves that we just need to “push through” or that “things will settle down soon,” but if this has become your daily experience — it’s time to pause and reassess.
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When Pressure Comes From People, Not Just Deadlines
Sometimes it’s not the workload itself, but how it’s being managed. Pressure can be magnified when there’s poor leadership, unrealistic expectations, or a toxic workplace culture. You might feel like:
- You’re constantly walking on eggshells around a manager
- You’re expected to respond to messages outside working hours
- You’re afraid to ask for help or admit you’re struggling
- You’re regularly blamed for things beyond your control
- You’ve been given more work after colleagues leave — with no additional support
Workplaces should be challenging, not punishing. And there’s a big difference between pushing people to grow and pushing them to breaking point.
The Physical and Mental Health Toll
Unchecked stress doesn’t just make for a miserable workday — it takes a toll on your body and mind. Chronic stress has been linked to:
- High blood pressure
- Digestive issues
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Weakened immune system
- Fatigue and insomnia
- Anxiety and depression
For many, the turning point comes when physical symptoms begin to appear. It’s your body’s way of saying, “I can’t keep doing this.”
Ignoring these signs can lead to long-term burnout or even post-traumatic stress, particularly if you’ve endured workplace bullying, harassment, or constant public criticism.
What You Can Do to Take Back Control
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that there are practical steps you can take to regain your footing — even if the workplace itself isn’t supportive.
1. Talk to Someone You Trust
Start by speaking to a colleague, friend, family member, or mental health professional. Sometimes saying things out loud helps bring clarity — and stops you from feeling isolated.
2. Document Everything
If you believe the pressure is unreasonable or targeted, start keeping a written record. Log excessive workloads, unfair treatment, any emails or messages that raise concerns, and how these issues are affecting your health.
This documentation can be vital if things escalate or if you need to take formal action later.
3. Speak to HR or a Manager (If Safe to Do So)
If you feel comfortable, raise your concerns with your direct manager or HR department. Sometimes, employers are unaware of how bad things have become — and a respectful conversation can lead to change.
If your manager is the problem, consider who else in the organisation you can safely approach.
4. Check Your Workplace Policies
Review your company’s policies on stress, mental health, bullying, and support services. Many workplaces have Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or access to mental health resources — even if they’re not well advertised.
5. Know Your Legal Rights
Under Australian workplace laws, employers have a duty of care to provide a safe work environment — including protecting employees from psychological harm. If you’re being pressured to work unreasonable hours, ignored when you raise concerns, or disciplined unfairly for stress-related performance, this could be a breach of your rights.
When Resignation Isn’t a Choice — It’s a Last Resort
In extreme cases, workplace pressure can become so unbearable that you feel you have no choice but to resign. This is sometimes referred to as a “constructive dismissal” — where the employer hasn’t technically fired you, but has created a work environment that makes staying untenable.
If this happens, you may still have grounds for a claim under unfair dismissal laws — particularly if you were forced out for raising legitimate concerns or were targeted after taking sick leave.
Before resigning, it’s always wise to:
- Get legal advice
- Document everything
- Review your employment contract and any exit terms
- Consider taking personal leave to create space for clearer thinking
Remember, walking away from a toxic situation is a sign of strength — not weakness.
Putting Your Wellbeing First
No job is worth sacrificing your mental or physical health. If you’re stuck in a high-pressure role that’s damaging your wellbeing, it’s okay to step back and reevaluate. That might mean reducing hours, seeking a new role, or even taking extended leave if your health requires it.
Burnout recovery takes time. Rebuilding confidence, resetting your nervous system, and reclaiming your personal life are all part of the healing process. Be patient with yourself, and surround yourself with support wherever you can find it — family, professionals, community, or even people who’ve been through similar experiences.
What matters most is that you recognise the signs and take them seriously. Because the longer you ignore them, the louder they tend to get — and the harder they are to recover from.
Listen to your body. Protect your peace. And remember: pressure might be part of work, but suffering doesn’t have to be.
