Video: Economic stress permeating the workplace

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SEATTLE - Economic stressors are permeating the workplace. Nearly half of Americans say stress is making it difficult to perform well at work. 

You may have noticed you or some of your colleagues are a little short tempered lately. Workplace health and morale will depend on how companies cope with stress during trying times. 

Negative emotions can spread like a cold, and workplace coach Maureen Moriarty says it's important for workers to stop the spread. Instead of focusing on stressful things like your shrinking 401k, she says workers need to focus on the things they can control and show up to work with a positive attitude. 

Bosses play a major role in setting the tone too. Moriarty says management needs to allow workers to safely vent frustrations and fears and they need to be cognizant of the attitude they portray to employees. 

"During times of great stress and times of crisis, we look to our leaders to see how they're responding," said Moriarty. "We get our cues about how we should be reacting from our leaders, so leaders need to be mindful to show up in a way that demonstrates calm and confidence to their workers." 

It's important for workers to be equipped with some stress-soothing strategies. People tend to take shallow breaths when they're stressed, so take time to focus on breathing deeply at work. It's proven to lower your heart rate and reduce stress. 

Also, take a walk at work and incorporate regular exercise into your life. Also, care for yourself by making sure you eat a good lunch and get enough sleep. 

Many companies are doing more with less so instead of getting overwhelmed. Experts say talk with your boss about priorities. Which tasks are the most important right now? Having clear goals helps relieve stress.