STRESS MANAGEMENT AND GENERATION Y.

Workplace stress is recognized as one of the most critical psychosocial risks in today’s work environment, with profound implications for employee well-being and organizational performance. This paper provides a comprehensive examination of the concept of stress, drawing on historical and contemporary scientific perspectives, emphasizing physiological, psychological, and organizational dimensions. Theoretical foundations are analyzed through the work of Selye, Lazarus, Shapiro, Slavich, and others, alongside an exploration of predominant sources of occupational stress, including organizational, psychosocial, individual, and digital stressors. The article focuses on high-risk professions such as healthcare, education, information technology, and service sectors. Furthermore, the study investigates stress coping strategies, including professional training, teamwork, employee assistance programs (EAPs), flexible work arrangements, positive organizational culture, and supportive leadership. An original empirical study involving over 50 respondents examines generational, genderbased, and professional differences in stress perception and response and the influence of managerial support. The findings highlight the necessity for a systemic and integrated approach to stress management that transcends individual responsibility and promotes organizational and cultural transformation. The paper concludes with practical recommendations tailored to the Macedonian context to enhance psychological well-being and workplace effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]