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Experiencing anxiety in the workplace? You're not the only one!
Another project stacked onto your already hectic workload, a surprise presentation you have to give by the end of day, a coworker that just can't seem to do their part....we've all been there.
Work stress can lead to anxiety in the workplace. It's important to know some methods to help manage your anxieties at work so that you can be your best and most productive self.
What Is Anxiety?
Many people experience anxiety at some point in their lives. It is a general feeling of nervousness, apprehension, or fear about what's about to happen.
Some signs that you may be experiencing anxiety are :
feeling worried
a desire to be perfect
fear of making a mistake
feeling of dread
blanking out or freezing up during stress
avoidance
shaking or sweating
Did you know?
What Does Anxiety In The Workplace Look Like?
There are many reasons you may feel anxious in the workplace. Some of the most common are:
Workload — tight deadlines or high workload, poor work/life balance
Conflict in the workplace — between coworkers or managers
Poor work environment — lack of trust, competitive environment
Role-fit — skills and abilities don’t match those required of the job
Lack of direction — unclear responsibilities or expectations
Think back to the last time you were anxious at work. What happened just before you felt anxious? Can you notice a pattern?
What Steps Can You Take To Manage Your Anxiety At Work?
Identify what makes you anxious and write it down.
Get your worries out: talk to a trusted coworker, your manager, or a loved one.
Practice prioritization and set reasonable goals for yourself.
Break down your work into more manageable steps, and focus on one at a time.
Don't avoid work that makes you anxious. Seek help when you need it.
Take breaks throughout the day. Stretch, get up, and move around.
Breathe. Try 5 minute mediation breaks when you start to feel worried.
Identify ways you can incorporate self care into your routine.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy eating can go a long way!
How Might Your Employer Help?
It's important to know you’re not alone. Seek help from your employer!
Letting your manager know how you're feeling is a first step in exploring potential solutions together, like adjusting your workload or addressing challenges with coworkers.
Ask about accommodations in your workplace. Your manager may be able to make changes that can help, like providing a more flexible work schedule.
Ask your manager or Human Resources department if your company has an Employee Assistance Program that provides mental health tools and resources to employees.
How Can You Talk To Your Manager?
Approaching your manager can be tough, but there are a few things you can do to prepare :
Ask for a dedicated time to chat one on one.
Be honest about how you're feeling.
Come prepared with examples of the things that cause you anxiety at work.
Be ready to suggest potential solutions to help your manager understand what you need.
If you're not comfortable talking to your manager, approach your Human Resources department.
Quiz
Ali is worried about a presentation she's scheduled to make a week from today. What would you suggest Ali do?
Ali may feel better after seeking support from others about how best to prepare. Practicing the presentation to gain comfort with the material and practicing calming breathing may help prepare her for the presentation as well!
Take Action
Ready to move forward?
This Byte has been authored by
Robin Hunter
Volunteer Learning Designer
This Byte has been reviewed by
Lana Do
MD, MPH, BCMAS