Straining at a computer screen to the point of a stiff neck. Deadlines. Long meetings. Last minute changes to long-held plans. What to have for lunch.

These and other everyday challenges contribute to work-related stress, leading to high blood pressure, tension headaches and other health issues. In fact, stress is cited as a leading cause of disability.

Fortunately, UCLA Health System offers employees opportunities to help reduce stress, including massage therapy. Studies show that as little as 15 minutes of massage can improve mental focus, productivity and job satisfaction by reducing the physical and psychological effects of stress. Initially developed by massage therapist Ross Scales and nursing unit director Mark Flitcraft as a non-pharmacologic way to address pain for patients, the UCLA Massage Therapy program has been expanded to include staff members and patients' family members.

Linda Ho, web marketing manager, discovered the benefits -- including convenience -- of the massage therapy program over a year ago. "I treat myself to a chair massage as often as I can. Ross massages away the knots and kinks from my neck and shoulders so I'm ready to tackle whatever comes up during the remainder of the day. Plus, several of my colleagues and I sign up back to back to make it worthwhile for Ross to come to our office to work."

As a team, the Rehabilitation Department and UCLA Health System Wellness Initiative strives to help employees combat work-related stress and achieve optimal health and happiness. A 20-minute chair massage costs $15 for employees and $20 for patients and family members.

To schedule a massage:

• print the massage coupon on the Wellness Website
• pay for the massage at the main cashier in CHS or UCLA Medical Plaza 200
• call x63055 to schedule your massage
• enjoy!