While having some anxiety at work is something that is impossible to avoid, there are signs you should watch out for that may signal your anxiety is getting out of control. When your anxiety seems to be impossible to manage, it may be time to consider that a deeper problem may be at work. If this is happening to you, it may be time to consider the possibility that something problematic may be occurring within your workplace.
Common Causes Of Anxiety
If you have been living with workplace anxiety, it is likely that it has begun to take a toll on your personal well-being. Some of the most common symptoms of an unhealthy, anxiety-ridden workplace include:
- Reduced job performance
- Unhealthy relationships with coworkers, increased distance/isolation
- Effects on your personal life
- Difficulty concentrating, staying energized, and staying motivated
- Reduced job satisfaction
- Reduced confidence
- Feelings of isolation
- Reduced social skills
- Diminished creativity
As you can see, anxiety can be devastating — both personally and professionally. This makes it hugely important to notice the signs of building anxiety and address them as soon as possible.
By paying attention to these signs, you can begin to understand when anxiety is becoming unhealthy and something that needs to change.
But when you finally realize that the anxiety is starting to affect your health and/or productivity, what should you do next?
It can be hard to know what to do in this situation, especially if you are worried about losing unemployment and your living wage. It is important, however, to make sure that you take action and don’t simply let the anxiety continue to spiral.
Tell Your Employer
One of the first things that you should do is to inform your employer of your struggles and attempt to have an honest conversation about your battles with anxiety. In this conversation, be open and honest about the workplace conditions that have been giving you a hard time. Additionally, know that if you have a disorder, you have certain rights according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As far as accommodations at work go, it might be worthwhile to look into your options and ensure that your employer is aware of your struggles. We understand that there is fear associated with this step, but rest assured that most good employers will understand where you’re coming from and want to help. If they don’t, it may be time to consider new employment and a healthier work environment.
You’ll never know until you ask!
Coping With Workplace Anxiety
While dealing with workplace anxiety is never easy, there are some ways that you can try to manage the anxiety and cope with your day-to-day routine. Try to be healthy about your coping strategies and avoid unhealthy substitutes including binge eating, medication abuse, anger, and others.
- Conversations with Friends
When you begin to feel overwhelmed or feel anxious emotions coming up, this could be a good time to try to talk to a trusted co-worker or close friend/family member. The people you love and that know you best are great for easing anxiety and helping bring you back down to earth.
- Make Time For Yourself
In our fast-paced world, it can be easy to get caught up in productivity and progress. This makes it essential to take some time now and again to slow down and enjoy yourself. This includes taking time for self-care and active relaxation by reading, meditating, learning a new skill, or engaging in a hobby you love but haven’t given time to recently.
- Reflect on Good Things
When stress starts to win and you begin to think negatively, try to focus on the good things in life and take account of what you are thankful for. Anxiety is great at tricking you into thinking the world is against you, but it is important to not let this tendency win and to try your best to stay positive and thankful for what you have earned and for what you do have.
Make A Positive Change
Workplace-inducing anxiety is nothing new, but that does not mean that you should settle for crippling anxiety relating to your workplace. Whether your workplace culture is toxic, you are being stretched too thin, or your manager is impossible to deal with, it is important to play the victim and to stand up and make a change.
Don’t assume the problem is you — consider the things about your job that are anxiety-inducing, and have that open discussion with your employer. After following the steps in this article, make sure to be honest and make choices regarding work that are best for both your future and your health.
Contact An Independent HR Consultant
HR Search and rescue offers experienced HR consultants who can help you navigate a healthy work environment while you work through your work anxiety. Contact us online or by phone at (844) 934-3743 and get started on tackling work anxiety today!