Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in the United States, affecting millions of people of all ages and backgrounds. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), approximately 15 million adults in the United States, or 7.1% of the U.S. population, suffer from an anxiety disorder.
The most common type of anxiety disorder is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which affects 6.8 million adults, or 3.1% of the U.S. population. Other anxiety disorders include panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Also, about 83% of the U.S. workforce suffers work-related stress, leading to work anxiety.
What Is Work Anxiety
Work anxiety sometimes referred to as job-related or work-related stress, is a common problem among employees. It can be caused by various factors, including job insecurity, long hours, lack of control over one’s work, and a lack of support from co-workers and supervisors. In some cases, work anxiety can even lead to depression and other serious mental health issues.
How Does Work Anxiety Manifest
Work anxiety affects many people and can manifest in a variety of ways. It can be a feeling of apprehension, stress, or worry about a job or task. It can manifest in physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms.
Physical symptoms of work anxiety include:
- Fatigue
- Muscle tension
- Restlessness
- Headaches
- Difficulty sleeping
- Stomach issues
Emotional symptoms of work anxiety may include:
- Fear
- Dread
- Worry
Behavioral symptoms of work anxiety may include:
- Procrastination
- Perfectionism
- Difficulty making decisions
- Difficulty making changes
- Irritability and anger
What Are the Causes of Work Anxiety
Work anxiety is a term used to describe the fear and worry that can sometimes accompany work-related tasks and responsibilities. It may be caused by a variety of factors, such as:
- Fear of failure
- Heavy workloads
- Long hours
- Job insecurity
- Managing staff
- Demanding boss
- Lack of control over one’s work
- Lack of support from co-workers and supervisors
- Low reward (no benefits, low pay, etc.)
- Meeting deadlines
- Workplace bullying or conflicts
- Lack of perception of fairness
- Lack of direction for tasks
What Are Some Tips for Dealing with Work Anxiety
Work anxiety is an increasingly common phenomenon in today’s workplace. Fortunately, there are several strategies for managing work anxiety. Here are some tips for dealing with it:
1. Practice Self-Care
Taking care of physical, mental, and emotional health is essential for managing work anxiety. Getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities can build resilience, which is crucial to handling stress and anxiety.
2. Talk to Someone
Don’t be afraid to seek help if a person struggles with work anxiety. Talking to a trusted mentor, friend, therapist, or counselor can provide invaluable support and help develop coping strategies. Therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction, and other therapy types, can help reduce work anxiety and improve overall job performance.
3. Set Boundaries
One of the best ways to manage work anxiety is to set boundaries and limits. Learn to prioritize the essential tasks and let go of those that aren’t. Be not afraid to say “no” when feeling overwhelmed or overextended.
4. Take Breaks
It’s essential to take regular breaks throughout the day to give the mind and body a chance to recharge. Step away from the desk, get some fresh air and do something to relax the body and mind.
5. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a great way to reduce stress and tension in the body. It will help to calm the mind and refocus the body’s energy. Take a few moments each day to sit in stillness and focus on breathing.
Conclusion
It is essential to recognize and address work anxiety to manage it effectively. If left untreated, work anxiety can lead to more serious mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety disorders. Suppose a person is experiencing any of the symptoms of work anxiety listed above. In that case, it is vital to seek help from a mental health professional.
At Therapy24x7, we offer cognitive behavioral therapy in Brooklyn that helps individuals identify and manage the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors causing distress in their workplace. We understand that work can be challenging and that sometimes it can feel overwhelming. Our experienced therapists will help identify and understand the patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that are causing distress.
We strive to create an atmosphere of trust, respect, and understanding in which our clients can feel comfortable and secure. Schedule an appointment with us today! Let us help your journey to a healthier, more balanced life.