Trigger Warning: This article discusses workplace anxiety and mental health challenges, which may be sensitive topics for individuals dealing with anxiety. Reader discretion is advised.
I am not a stranger to anxiety, and I am positive many of my readers would be able to resonate with this feeling. Owing to the digital revolution, the power to speak up from the comfort of your safe space and to reach millions with a single click, mental health is not such a ‘mental’ topic anymore. Hence I feel it’s only fair to analyse how our mental health impacts work and vice versa.
So grab yourself a cup of something soothing, and let’s talk about this wild and often invisible elephant.
The Unseen Storm
Picture this: You’re at work, buried beneath a mountain of tasks, and suddenly, a storm brews inside you. Heart racing, palms sweating, that familiar churning in your gut. Yep, that’s anxiety knocking on your door, and it’s no small guest. According to a study conducted in 2021 by LinkedIn, a staggering 55% of employees have reported feeling anxious during their workday. This anxiety isn’t just a mind game; it’s like a rainstorm that pours down on your productivity.
But what’s causing this storm? Well, it’s often a mix of things. Unsecure jobs, tight deadlines, and the constant pressure to perform all contribute. It’s like a perfect recipe for a pot of anxiety stew. And trust me, it’s not a flavour anyone savours.
When the Storm Hits Work
Now, let’s talk about the aftermath of that anxiety storm at work. Ever noticed how your productivity takes a nosedive when that storm hits? You’re not alone. As shared above, more than half of the workforce experiences stress or anxiety. And clearly, that has an impact on our work output.
But here’s the kicker – most workplaces don’t address this massive elephant roaming around the office. In fact, only a meagre 17% of companies have policies to support mental health. It’s like we’re all in a room with an elephant, pretending it’s a potted plant. How’s that for irony?
Let’s Talk About Talking
Now, let’s get real. When was the last time you had an open conversation about mental health at work? The truth is, that the stigma surrounding mental health often locks us in a tight silence. We need to shatter that silence, though. Managers need to create a space where anxious employees can say, “Hey, I’m not okay.” Imagine the relief of sharing your struggle with your team, knowing they’re there to support you. So if you’re a manager or simply a coworker, there’s a simple tip on how to identify an anxious coworker.
Tip: They might be the one who frequently cancels lunch plans, avoids eye contact, or seems overly irritable.
It’s worth considering that this could even be a reflection of your own experience. Remember, acknowledging your own feelings of anxiety is the first step towards addressing and managing its impact.
Taming the Elephant
Alright, enough about identifying anxiety – let’s talk about taming it. First off, take a deep breath. No, seriously, do it right now. Deep breaths are like the emergency brakes for your racing thoughts. Another technique that works wonders is mindfulness. Taking a moment to ground yourself, to truly be in the present, can ease that anxious storm.
And if you’re a manager or a coworker of someone dealing with anxiety, here’s a pearl of wisdom: SUPPORT. Sometimes, just knowing that someone’s got your back can be a game-changer. Listen to them, let them vent, and remind them that they’re not in this alone.
Building a Mental Health Haven
Now, let’s dream big. Imagine a workplace where mental health isn’t just a buzzword. It’s an actual thing, integrated into the company’s DNA. We’re talking about a ‘mental health friendly workplace’ checklist. Flexible hours, confidential support, and even mindfulness sessions – these are the building blocks of a haven where that anxious elephant shrinks to the size of a mouse.
Wrapping Up the Trunk
This is how I see the elephant called anxiety, and it’s okay if you don’t see it the same. Remember, your perspective might be different, your story will be different, but you’re not alone in this. That storm raging inside you? You’ve got the tools to calm it.
And a special piece of advice for the managers and leaders- don’t just ignore the elephant in the room – acknowledge it, tame it, and turn it into a mouse.
As a closing, let me leave you with a little story. A team, much like any other, once sat down in a circle. Not for a meeting, but for a journey. Each member shared their life’s milestones, challenges, and what shaped their values. The result? A bond is so strong that their collective productivity soared. They turned their workplace into a haven, a place where that elephant was not just tamed but transformed.
So, dear reader, let’s start a revolution – a revolution of understanding, supporting, and taming those wild elephants. It’s time to free ourselves from the storm and create a workplace where mental health isn’t just acknowledged – but celebrated.
Authored by: Team at Founder’s Nest
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