Kperogi tasks University Mgt on workplace stress management
By Bashir Dawodu
A Senior Lecturer in the Department of Health Promotion and Environmental Health Education, University of Ilorin, Dr Kperogi Ismail Ibrahim, has charged university management teams to improve their capacity to cope with and manage stressful situations while paying greater attention to the welfare of staff.
Dr Kperogi made the call last Wednesday, (September 23, 2026), while discussing his research work, titled “Effects and Prevention of Workplace Stress Among Academics” ,in an interview with the UNILORIN Bulletin in his office.
He said the introduction of stress-management programmes, including cognitive behavioural approaches, could reduce sickness-related absenteeism and staff turnover, while also helping to ease depressive symptoms among academics and other workers.
The don described workplace stress as “the harmful physical, mental and social responses that happen to employees when there is pressure of job demands.”
According to him, the development of physical and mental health problems arising from workplace stress could lead to prolonged sick leave or absenteeism, as well as reduced job quality, performance and productivity.
The health educationist identified unhealthy eating habits, depression and burnout as some of the consequences of workplace stress, noting that they could have negative effects on organisations and the general well being of employees.
Dr Kperogi listed some common workplace stressors as job insecurity, long working hours, unrealistic and constant deadlines, limited opportunities for career growth and advancement, and also challenges involving difficult colleagues.
He advised workers to prioritise their health and seek medical attention whenever they notice physical symptoms associated with stress.
Such symptoms, he noted, may include aches and pains, chest pain or a feeling of a racing heart,exhaustion or difficulty sleeping, headaches, dizziness or shaking, high blood pressure, muscle tension or jaw clenching, and stomach or digestive problems.
Dr Kperogi recommended sports and mild exercise, seeking professional help when necessary, and engaging in self-care activities as some measures for minimising exposure to stress.
He further stressed the importance of maintaining healthy social relationships, noting that they are vital to improving cardiovascular health and immune function, while also reducing anxiety and depression.
Dr Kperogi, therefore, called for greater sensitisation among workers on the importance of maintaining healthy social connections and adopting effective stress-management practices.
According to him, such measures can help alleviate job related stress and promote the well being of workers across different sectors.
