Although the first lockdown during the corona virus was three years ago now, people are still reporting suffering from stress and anxiety issues after returning to work. The lack of human interaction during the lockdowns across the UK affected everyone in some way or another, but one worrying trend that emerged was social and workplace anxiety. Many people who felt they were socially confident prior to the pandemic are reporting still feeling stressed and anxious about their work environment and how to deal with stress and anxiety in the workplace.
It is imperative that we learn techniques to feel calmer and more confident at work so that we do not become overwhelmed or stressed to the point of making ourselves sick with worry. Too mane people suffering from work related stress and anxiety carry on regardless in fear of feeling like their putting other team members under pressure if they take a break, or worrying about how time off will look to their employers: the truth is that taking a little time out and looking after yourself can, in fact, increase productivity and mental health at work! Here are some ideas on things you can do to help reduce work place related stress and stay calm and confident at work.
- Take breaks: It’s essential to take breaks during your workday to relax and recharge. Even a 5–10-minute break can help reduce stress!
- Prioritise tasks: Prioritise your work tasks and try to complete the most important ones first. This will help you feel more in control of your workload and reduce stress.
- Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation can help you stay present and calm in the face of stress. You can try simple breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques to reduce stress. (Try this breathing exercise here)
- Exercise: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress. Just taking a short walk, stretching or retreat to the staff room to strike a yoga pose can help clear your mind and recharge your body.
- Practice time management: Effective time management can help you feel more organised and in control of your workload. You can try to break down tasks into smaller manageable parts and schedule them accordingly.
- Stay hydrated: Did you know that dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue and stress? Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Connect with others: Having a support system at work can help you cope with stress. You can try connecting with co-workers, seek support from friends and family, or look for a local support group.
- Take care of your body: Eating healthy foods and getting enough sleep can help reduce stress levels. Make sure you prioritise self-care and take care of your body.
- Seek help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, don’t hesitate to seek help. You can talk to a therapist, counsellor, or HR representative to get the support you need.
- Create a positive work environment: You can try to create a positive work environment by being supportive of co-workers, offering praise and recognition, and focusing on positive aspects of work. This can help reduce stress levels and create a more enjoyable work environment.
- Finally, do not be afraid to say no! Taking on too much because you feel obliged to help out or take on too many tasks for fear of the repercussions can cause so much stress that it is counter-productive. Learn to say “I am not in a position to take that on right now” or “Maybe someone else would be able to help get that actioned quicker, as I am at full capacity at the moment” can be a powerful way of managing your work load and not taking on too much.
There are many organisations out there that offer help and support in these situations and your first port of call if you are worried about the effect of stress, anxiety or your mental health should always be your healthcare provider or GP.
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