Being self-employed or part of start-up is very stressful thing, as every day is a roller coaster of emotions.

There is stress in any type of work; however, I have found that being self-employed or part of a small company can be more stressful since there are less people to share the burden of what you are trying to accomplish.

I have also found that in digital media & technology related businesses that you feel this stress more intensely, because the swings between the highs and lows happen much more quickly - hence the phrase "the roller coaster of emotions".

It has been my experience that this occurs on a daily basis and can be a very dangerous thing to manage. So here some tips:

• Team lunches: You don't have to do them every day, but once or twice a week at the very least having a team lunch can be very helpful. They help build team morale.
  
• Off-site events: Plan a monthly off-site event, something fun, like going to play pool or paintball.
  
• Exercise: Be it walking, running, working out at gym or doing yoga, exercise is a great outlet. Lead by example and don't frown on employees doing this during the work day.
  
• Play space: If you have the ability, set-up a play space in the office where employees can let off steam. Incorporate video games, pool table, foosball table, etc. into your space.

I have no doubt that they are many other ways to help alleviate a stressful work environment - hopefully these tips which I have found useful in the past will be of help to you. If you have any other tips, please share them.