Workplace Anxiety: It’s a thing

Workplace anxiety is becoming more and more common and is a known contributor to decreases in presenteeism

With the stresses of work and life, and everything else going on in the world, it comes as no surprise that around 12 billion working days per year are lost to depression and anxiety.

Signs that you Might be anxious at work

1) You constantly worry that you’re going to lose your job

2) Your worrying about making mistakes inhibits your ability to do your role

3) You dread and worry about returning to work on a Monday

4) You have constant feeling of doubt that you’re good enough

5) People notice you’re stressed

Anxiety Prevention

Firstly, let’s acknowledge that there isn’t one thing. Also, if you’re experiencing low levels of wellbeing and/or high levels of anxiety, please contact Mind

Pick one, two, or all of the below. Regardless of what you are feeling, these are all healthy habits that contribute to overall wellbeing

BREATHE: Box Breathing and the 4 - 7 - 8 technique are brilliant, quick tools that can be used in the moment when you’re experiencing a physiological response to anxiety

MOVEMENT: Physical activity of any kind. And we mean any. Don’t just consider running and hot yoga, think about taking a stroll during your lunch break, or the stairs rather than the elevator

SUPPORT: Ask for help. Speak to your manager, onsite Mental Health First Aider, HR Department or colleagues. Whoever you feel most comfortable talking to.

NATURE: Don’t underestimate the power of Mother Nature. There is an abundance of research into the positive outcomes of appreciating beauty and excellence, and there’s something about the world around us that breathes energy when we pay attention.

CONNECTION: Relationships and meaningful social connections are one of the most impactful pillars of wellbeing. Reaching out, talking, listening, advice giving and taking (by whatever means), can help shift the focus of the feelings of anxiety

SLEEP: Ideally 6-8 hours per night. Nuff said.

EAT: When we’re stressed, we can be forgiven for reaching for the cookie jar or ripping open the bag of Skittles but we get out what we put in. Eating clean can help increase wellbeing and general mood

COMPASSION: And not forgetting self-compassion. Giving it, accepting it and receiving it, take your pick. Allowing yourself to feel anxious at times where it’s an understandable response. Life is stressful, let’s not pretend otherwise

What about business?

Education and understanding in organisations is key. Having Mental Health First Aiders onsite and access to Employee Assistance Programs are both examples of where businesses are giving consideration to mental health. The World Health Organisation is committed to improving mental health at work, and recognises that decent work is good for our health. With such a focus, and with policy on the side of employees’ wellbeing, the hope is that transformative action will take place. If you want to find out more on how your company can increase action and awareness, please click here