Work Related Stress among Emerging Private Universities, a Case Study of Two Selected Universities in Harare, Zimbabwe

This research examined work-related stress among staff members in two anonymous evolving private universities of Harare metropolitan district in Zimbabwe. The two universities have a total population of 136 staff members (both academic and non-academic). A sample size of 40 participants was selected out of the 105 staff members who operate onsite. By means of a cross-sectional research design with both quantitative and qualitative methods, the study collected data through semi-structured interviews and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to ascertain their sources of stress and stress levels. The findings revealed moderate to higher levels of stress among the administrative and support staff. The major stressors identified include; unclear institutional policies, delayed salaries, work overload, pressure to maintain standards, and competition for recognition. The research also noted that while women staff members were more motivated to express their stress, men staff members presented with passivity in seeking mental health support despite desiring it. Physical signs of stress involved chronic headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, whereas emotional symptoms included irritability, procrastination, and poor concentration. The research emphasized a pressing need for structured mental health support frameworks, clear institutional policies, and well-defined self-care practices in evolving private universities. Recommendations include creating extensive mental health support initiatives, enhancing communication within the organization, and establishing stress management initiatives.