Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults.
Anxiety disorders can make it challenging to manage in everyday life, and the workplace is no exception. Workplace anxiety is a problem that is often overlooked or dismissed. It can be challenging to identify and even harder to treat.
If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety in the workplace, reach out. There are many resources available to to you!
In this article, we will explore what anxiety in the workplace looks like and some methods that can be used to treat it. Keep reading to learn more about anxiety in the workplace.
What Does Anxiety in the Workplace Look Like?
Anxiety in the workplace manifests itself in many ways, including physical symptoms, emotional responses, and cognitive problems. Signs of anxiety in workers are often physical, psychological, and behavioral.
Here are a few signs that someone is struggling to function at work because of anxiety.
Feeling Constantly on Edge or Stressed
One of the most common signs of anxiety in the workplace is constantly feeling on edge or stressed. This can manifest as feeling overwhelmed, irritable, or tense. If you think this way often, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional.
Physical Symptoms
Anxiety can also cause physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, racing heart, or chest pain. These symptoms can make it difficult to concentrate on work tasks or interact with others. If you are experiencing physical symptoms of anxiety, it’s essential to see a doctor to rule out other medical conditions.
Avoiding Work or Certain Tasks at Work That Cause Anxiety
Another sign of anxiety in the workplace is avoiding certain situations or people. This may look like refusing to attend meetings, taking frequent sick days, or only working when no one else is around. If you find yourself avoiding work tasks or social situations, it may be time to seek help.
If you avoid work tasks or situations that cause you anxiety, it may be time to speak with a mental health professional. You may also want to talk to your employer about what accommodations can be made to help you feel more comfortable at work.
Difficulty Concentrating or Trouble Completing Tasks
Anxiety can also cause difficulty concentrating or trouble completing tasks. This may look like staring off into space, forgetting to complete steps in a process, or taking longer to complete tasks than usual. If you have trouble concentrating or completing work tasks, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional.
Procrastination
Procrastination is another sign of anxiety in the workplace. This may look like putting off work tasks until the last minute, making excuses not to start a task, or avoiding work altogether.
Perfectionism
Perfectionism is another sign of anxiety in the workplace. This may look like spending too much time on a task, redoing work that does not need to be redone or having difficulty moving on from mistakes.
Muscle Tension or Headaches
Anxiety can also cause muscle tension or headaches. This may look like clenching your jaw, having a tight feeling in your chest, or experiencing a headache that won’t go away.
Anxiety Attacks or Panic Attacks
Anxiety attacks or panic attacks are also signs of anxiety in the workplace. This may look like having a sudden fear or terror, feeling like you can’t breathe, or feeling like you’re going to faint.
If you find yourself having anxiety attacks or panic attacks, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. These attacks can be highly distressing and may make it difficult to function at work.
Managing Anxiety in the Workplace
Several things can be done to help reduce or eliminate anxiety in the workplace. Here are a few things that may help.
Talk to a Mental Health Professional
A mental health professional can help you understand and manage your anxiety. A therapist can assist you with talk therapy. A psychiatrist can decide if you would benefit from medications to function better at your job.
Create a Support System
Having a family, friends, or co-workers support system can help you manage your anxiety. When you isolate yourself, anxiety can worsen. Talking to others about your anxiety can also help you feel more understood and less alone.
Exercise
Exercise can help reduce stress and improve your mood because it releases endorphins. You can do a quick workout in your office or take a brisk walk during your lunch break.
Identify Your Triggers
Identifying your triggers can help you avoid or prepare for situations that may cause you anxiety. If you know a meeting is going to be anxiety-provoking, you can prepare ahead of time by coming up with some questions or talking points.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques can help you calm down when you’re feeling anxious. Some relaxation techniques include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep can help you manage stress and anxiety. Make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet can help you manage stress and anxiety. Avoid foods that exacerbate anxiety like caffeine and sugar. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
When to Get Help
At what point should you seek professional help? Anxiety can manifest in many ways, but some of the most common symptoms include feeling agitated, tense, or jumpy, having a hard time concentrating, feeling like everything is an emergency, anxiety or panic attacks, and intrusive thoughts.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms impacting your ability to work, it’s essential to seek help. Don’t wait until anxiety gets too severe to get help. The sooner you seek help, the better.
There are many effective treatments for anxiety, including therapy, medication, and self-care measures like exercise and mindfulness meditation. It may take some time to find the treatment that works best for you, but help is available. You don’t have to suffer in silence.
Anxiety In The Workplace: Know When to Quit
Sometimes our anxiety may coincide with a toxic workplace. In these situations, it is essential to know when to walk away.
It’s not always easy to tell if a workplace is toxic, but some signs are to look out for. These include:
- A hostile or unsupported work environment
- Chronic stress and anxiety
- Abusive or unprofessional behavior from superiors
- Anxiety and depression among co-workers
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it may be time to look for a new job. Don’t stay in a situation that is making you miserable. There are other options out there.
From Anxious to Confident
Anxiety in the workplace is a real problem, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. With the help of a mental health professional and some self-care, you can overcome anxiety and be confident in your ability to do your job.
Don’t suffer in silence. If you think you might be suffering from anxiety, it can be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional. There are many effective treatments available.
If you’re struggling with anxiety in the workplace and know that it’s time to get help, reach out today. We can help you find the treatment that’s right for you.
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