in an effort to calm the work force, a 240 gallon aquarium has been set up in the main cafeteria area. Physical activity does help relive stress, a 8/10 mile Nature Trail was installed in 1993. The trail circles the facility and is tastefully landscaped with fruit, hardwood and evergreen trees. Due to the popularity of the trail, a 4/10 of a mile spur was recently added. This section was developed into the woods on the perimeter of the property and gives employees that "back to nature feeling. In 1994, the management team, which consists of 51 individuals, took part in a stress management class and were surveyed using the Stress Audit provided by Biobehavioral Associates. The survey was similar to the Holmes & Rahe scale but was more detailed and included questioning on current health. This audit is one more tool to assist managers into a healthier, more relaxed state of mind thus reducing stress levels . Summary: In today's fast paced society trying to cope with occupational and social stress is challenge for everyone. Some people view occupational stress a necessary life style to stay competitive in an aggressive business or manufacturing setting. If an individual is bombarded by enough stressors, burn out may be inevitable. Individuals who are exposed to stressors on the job, and/or at home are at risk of becoming physically and psychologically ill. Even though social stress can contribute to occupational stress, and visa versa, as of yet no conclusive research has shown the cumulative effects of the two environments (S. Klintzman 1990). After looking at all the facts it is very obvious to see that stress is an unavoidable fact of life. If properly monitored and controlled through stress reduction techniques and a healthy lifestyle we all can reduce, but never total eliminate stress from our lives. With this in mind I can certainly rewrite the follow old adage; "The only thing certain in life is death, stress and taxes." Bibliograph...
