Introduction. Professional stress is regarded as psychophysical risk factor, which adversely affect employees and the entire organization. It could bring about some negative health effects in working population, also it might be responsible for serious economic and organizational consequences. Aim. The aim of the study was: (1) to measure the intensity of stress, (2) to define its sources in a group of academic teachers, (3) to assess the type of strategy used in a stressful situation and (4) to determine the need for developing preventive measures. Material and methods. The survey was conducted at universities in Silesia. It was attended by 198 teachers, who completed a questionnaire about the author's potential stressors, and questionnaires PSS-10 studying level of intensity of stress, and MINI-COPE evaluating ways to cope with stress. Results. It was found that the mental workload, work organization, and periodic assessment were the most stressful factors at academic teachers' work. 2/5 of all respondents had high levels of stress intensity. Active coping, planning and seeking emotional support were typical methods of coping with stress in the group of university teachers. Conclusions. Working as a university teacher is highly stressful, therefore the approach to reduce stress should include two aspects: the factors that cause it, and ways of dealing with it. It would be desirable to take the appropriate prevention efforts, including regular meetings with psychologist.

Key words: stress, professional stress, academic teacher, coping with stress.