Anxiety and Mental Health in the Workplace: How to Cope and Seek Support
Anxiety is a common mental health issue that can impact individual’s at work.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 18% of adults in the United States experience an anxiety disorder in any given year. Anxiety can take many forms, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, and it can range in severity from mild to severe.
Anxiety in the workplace can be particularly challenging, as it can interfere with productivity, concentration, and overall job satisfaction. It can also impact relationships with colleagues and lead to feelings of isolation and stress.
If you are struggling with anxiety at work, it's important to remember that you are not alone and that there are steps you can take to manage your anxiety and find support. Here are some tips for coping with anxiety in the workplace:
Practice self-care: Make sure to take care of your physical and emotional needs outside of work. This might include getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that you find relaxing and enjoyable.
Communicate with your manager: If your anxiety is impacting your work, it can be helpful to discuss this with your manager. They may be able to offer support and accommodations to help you manage your anxiety at work.
Seek support: Talk to a trusted friend or family member about your anxiety and how it's affecting you at work. You can also consider seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor.
Establish boundaries: Set limits on how much work-related stress you allow into your personal life. This might include setting boundaries around checking work emails after hours or taking breaks to recharge.
Consider therapy: Seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, can be an effective way to manage anxiety in the workplace. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to explore and understand the root causes of your anxiety and develop coping strategies to manage it. There are various types of therapy that can be helpful for anxiety, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy. A mental health professional can help you determine the best approach for your needs.
It's important to remember that seeking support for anxiety is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it takes courage and strength to address mental health challenges and make positive changes in your life. If you are struggling with anxiety at work, don't hesitate to seek help and support. Your mental health and well-being are just as important as your physical health.
If you are struggling with anxiety, Real Solutions Therapeutic Services offers counseling services that can help. We are located in Asheville, NC and Wilmington, NC. Please feel free to reach out to us for an appointment by clicking here. We would be happy to assist you in finding relief from anxiety.