A medical practitioner at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, Dr Nkeka Fortune, has urged public servants on proper management of stress to enhance their mental wellness, productivity and service delivery.
Fortune, who said that stress could be a natural body response to work pressure and life demands, said, “unmanaged stress can negatively affect physical health, emotional stability and overall job performance”.
The medical expert, who spoke in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday in a lecture he delivered during Ekiti State Ministry of Works’ monthly prayer meeting, urged workers on proper management of stress.
She said, “Factors responsible for stress at work include excessive workload and tight deadlines, poor time management, lack of adequate rest, interpersonal conflicts among colleagues, job insecurity, unclear expectations, financial pressures, family responsibilities and as well health-related challenges.
“Prolonged stress may result in fatigue, hypertension, anxiety, reduced concentration and decreased productivity if not properly addressed.
“However, practical solutions to effective management of stress include proper planning and prioritisation of tasks, taking regular breaks during work hours and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
“Workers are also advised to engage in regular physical exercise, develop positive communication with colleagues, seek medical or professional counselling when necessary, pray and participate in spiritual activities for emotional stability,” he said.
The Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo, who lauded the medical expert for the insightful lecture, stressed that “a healthy workforce is essential for efficient service delivery in the ministry and as well all ministries, departments and agencies in the state.
Adebayo reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to “promoting the welfare, mental health and overall wellbeing of its workforce to ensure sustained productivity and quality infrastructure delivery across Ekiti State”.
The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Kayode Ibijola, alongside directors and members of staff, also appreciated the lecture, describing it as timely and impactful.
