Suffering from anxiety or depression in the workplace can make you feel lonely and isolated, and it often helps to talk about it. Anxiety and depression can impact how we connect with our family, friends, and colleagues. It can also make us ineffective at work and cause us to lose our productivity.
Did you know? More than 60% of professionals in the United States are suffering from workplace anxiety. So, what can people do to quell anxiety and live more comfortably? Here are five tips on how to manage stress and anxiety in your workplace:
1. Live Without Limits
One of the worst things you can do is limit yourself from the opportunities life throws your way. Several clinical psychologists and mental health experts advocate that people suffering from anxiety need to participate more. Look for new ways to express yourself to the fullest and build your identity outside of work.
2. Don’t Suppress it
If you think you’re the only one feeling anxious – think again! Almost everyone feels anxiety, and it is ok to talk about it. Like all other feelings and emotions, anxiety is a part of life that demands expression, verbal, and non-verbal. Most people consider anxiety as a form of vulnerability and weakness, which prevents them from expressing it. Respect yourself and how you feel. Share your thoughts with a close friend or colleague. If not, schedule an appointment with a reputable psychologist.
3. Face Your Fears
There can be many reasons you may feel anxious – it might be the fear of public speaking or speaking in general. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and try talking to people via text or chatting. Keep reminding yourself: you can succeed and persevere against anxiety, no matter what. Exposing yourself to a situation that provokes discomfort can help you change your relationship with anxiety. Who knows, you might start feeling more confident.
4. Self-Care Is Important
Self-care is an often-neglected part of a healthy life. Adopt lifestyle practices that make you happy and allow you to express yourself. Getting good sleep, nutrition with an active social life helps you get your mind off work. One of the reasons people suffer from anxiety in the workplace is that they can never get work out of their heads. Remember, self-care is important for managing stress and becoming more resilient.
5. Take a Break
Making smaller changes to your schedule or going on a vacation for a few days can significantly reduce your anxiety levels. What we are saying is, take a break from a hectic lifestyle and try experiencing life a little. Can’t do any of that? Maybe bask in the sun on a beach, visit a nearby park – anything to get your mind of the anxiety.
6. Muscle Relaxation
Engage yourself in exercises that help you relax and set your mind at ease. Several exercises can help you relax your muscles, such as progressive muscle relaxation, mindful meditation, and guided imagery exercises, among others.
7. Staying Connected
What are friends for? Workplace anxiety often piles up when you do not have others to talk to. There is no point in thinking that you are in this alone, especially with the current state of the world. Social support is essential for managing stress and maintaining strong ties with the people you hold dear. Talking is a great way to vocalize your fears, and it can help you dramatically reduce your stress levels.
8. Seek Professional Help
Sometimes expressing yourself to familiar faces can be difficult. If that is something you are feeling right now, consider getting professional help. A clinical psychologist is not just someone with knowledge; they also have professional experience in dealing with anxiety. Talking to a therapist has several benefits. For instance, you don’t have any ties with the person, the information and conversation stay confidential, and you gain insights and suggestions that work.
A professional psychiatrist is someone who knows the importance of communication and expression. Check if your organization offers healthcare insurance that offers psychiatric help as well.
9. No Caffeine
When managing anxiety, a morning latte should never be your friend. If you have an addiction, then keep the consumption to a minimum. Too much caffeine accelerates your heart rate while also causing elevated anxiety levels.
To Sum Up
Leaving your anxiety unaddressed can be both detrimental to your health, as well as your spirits. Acknowledge the fact that you are a human – with feelings. Remind yourself that you deserve a life filled with happiness and never-ending personal and professional success.
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