Job stress in National Health Service managers: A qualitative exploration of the stressor-strain-health relationship. The 'fit' and 'unfit' manager

This study demonstrates that working as a manager in the National Health Service (NHS) can create strain and lead to poor mental health and reduced wellbeing which has considerable implications for the economic and productivity costs to the NHS. The study also demonstrates that three main sets of variables - environmental, social and personality centred - jointly influence the experience of work stress for the managers. A Core Conceptual Category found is the 'fit manager'. The study reveals that the most psychologically fit managers are those who cope with stress using a combination of male and female, rather stereotype attitudes and behaviours, including pragmatism, assertiveness, control, awareness, reciprocal relationships, support, communication, listening, balancing work/home life and a body/mind, health/nutrition/exercise practical and attentional focus. The 'unfit manager' lacks balance, particularly between work and home life. They may be over-involved, over-committed, over-worked and under-aware of the psycho-physiological consequences of workplace strain. However, they may be confident and have self-efficacy but do not set boundaries on workload and hours of work.