Work-related stress in the entry stages: staff perceptions at a higher education institution

Workplace stress is a psychosocial risk that affects the health and well-being of workers, especially in the service sector, where constant demands, contact with clients, and pressure to meet deadlines generate a considerable emotional burden. In university institutions, this phenomenon is relevant, as academic and administrative staff face multiple simultaneous responsibilities, such as serving students, meeting institutional goals, and managing educational processes. This study analyzed the stress levels of workers at a university in Barranquilla during 2025, using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14). Fifteen workers were surveyed, and high levels of stress were found. The main stressors were lack of control over responsibilities, the accumulation of tasks, and pressure from academic and administrative deadlines. These reflect the challenges of the university environment, where high demands can affect mental health. Compared to previous studies, the constant presence of stress in educational institutions is confirmed. It is recommended to implement strategies such as workload redistribution, digital planning tools, and strengthening internal communication. These measures can reduce the emotional burden and foster a healthier work environment in universities