Stress Coping Strategies Adopted by Selected Banking Employees in Tamil Nadu

Occupational stress has become an increasingly prevalent concern in the dynamic and demanding environment of the Indian banking sector. With the evolving roles of bank employees, fueled by technological advancements, regulatory changes, and increasing customer expectations, stress has emerged as a critical challenge affecting both individual well-being and institutional productivity. This study explores the various stress coping strategies adopted by selected banking employees across public and private sector banks in Tamil Nadu, aiming to understand how they navigate work-related pressures while maintaining their professional responsibilities. Using a mixed-method approach, primary data was collected from 800 banking professionals across key districts in Tamil Nadu through a structured questionnaire, supplemented by in-depth interviews. The study identifies and ranks fifteen core coping mechanisms, including time management, open communication, physical exercise, social support systems, mindfulness practices, and periodic skill enhancement. The findings reveal a clear variation in coping strategies based on organizational type, employee designation, age group, and work experience. Public sector employees tend to rely more on structured support systems and peer communication, whereas private sector employees show a higher inclination towards individual techniques such as digital detox and fitness routines.The study highlights the importance of institutional support in stress mitigation and recommends the integration of wellness programs, flexible scheduling, and stress management workshops into the HR policies of banks. Furthermore, it emphasizes that while individual resilience plays a crucial role, long-term solutions lie in creating a workplace culture that prioritizes mental well-being and work-life balance. The insights derived from this study offer valuable implications for banking institutions, policymakers, and human resource managers seeking to enhance employee satisfaction, reduce burnout, and ultimately, improve service delivery in the financial sector.