By Abdullahi Danbakaba
(Information and Public Relations Unit)
Despite common misconceptions that stress invariably harms health by leading to psychological, mental, and physical issues such as anxiety, illness, and diminished workplace performance, moderate stress can serve as a motivational force. It challenges individuals to maximize their potential and improve service delivery, according to Prof. Francis Fatoye, a UK-based Physiotherapist and Professor of Health Economics and Outcomes at Manchester Metropolitan University.
This viewpoint was a key takeaway from a Public Lecture titled,”Work-Life Balance: Stress and Well-being in the Academic Community,” delivered by Prof. Fatoye on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA). Held at the University’s Auditorium, Main Campus, the lecture addressed the complexities of stress management in academic settings.
Prof. Fatoye acknowledged the detrimental impact of excessive stress on individuals, families, and communities. He identified factors such as economic hardship, unrealistic work expectations, workplace discrimination, and societal pressures as primary stressors. He warned that prolonged stress can lead to elevated administrative costs for organizations due to reduced employee well-being.
To counteract these stressors, Prof. Fatoye urged the University community to prioritize health through vacations, regular exercise, medical check-ups, healthy eating habits, proper sleep, and social engagement. He emphasized that “investing in your health leads to better well-being.”
The lecture also introduced the “4 A’s of Stress Management”—Avoid, Alter, Accept, and Adapt—as key strategies for mitigating stress. These principles highlight the importance of identifying stress triggers, setting achievable goals, accepting life’s challenges, and adjusting to new circumstances.
Prof. Fatoye recommended that FUT, MINNA establish a well-being center offering professional counseling for both staff and students. He also suggested enhancing academic freedom, career development, and support services within the university.
In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta reaffirmed the University’s commitment to launching a School of Medical Sciences and expressed interest in engaging Prof. Fatoye as a visiting professor. Prof. Kuta acknowledged the challenges of workplace stress due to overwhelming tasks and outlined measures already implemented by the university to alleviate stress. These include virtual classes, e-examinations, incentive programs for researchers, and free staff transport services.
The Vice-Chancellor thanked Prof. Fatoye for his insightful lecture and encouraged attendees to apply the knowledge gained for better stress management.
Photo credit: Elijah Yisa