Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults. Anxiety in the workplace is a real and growing problem.

There are a [number of factors that can contribute to anxiety in the workplace](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/trust-building-exercises). These factors may include

- Job insecurity
- Long hours
- Unrealistic deadlines
- A lack of control over one's work. 

This can be especially true for employees who are already [struggling with anxiety](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/anxiety-in-the-workplace) or other [mental health issues](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/mental-health-and-culture). 

If you're an employer, there are a few things you can do to help [employees who are struggling with workplace anxiety](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/workplace-mental-health-culture/mental-health-in-the-workplace).

## What Is Workplace Anxiety?
[Workplace anxiety](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/workplace-social-anxiety) is a type of anxiety that is experienced in the workplace. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, job insecurity, and social isolation. 

Anxiety in the workplace can lead to a number of negative consequences, such as absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased risk of accidents.

There are a number of ways to help [employees suffering from anxiety at work](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/work-life-balance-for-employees). Some methods include 

- Providing support and resources
- Increasing communication
- Offering flexible work arrangements. 

Implementing these strategies can help to reduce the negative impact of anxiety at [work and help employees to thrive in their roles](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/work-life-balance-for-employees).

## So, what’s causing Anxiety in the Workplace?
Anxiety disorders are the most common [mental health problem](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/mental-health-at-work) in the United States, [affecting 18% of the population](https://hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/mental-health-disorder-statistics). 

There are many factors that can contribute to work-related anxiety. Some of the most common include: 

**Fear of failure**
This can be particularly common in high-pressure jobs or situations where there is a lot riding on the outcome. 

**Perfectionism**
Striving for perfection can lead to excessive stress and anxiety, as employees feel they can never meet their own standards.

**Fear of criticism**
This can be another issue for those in high-pressure jobs or positions of responsibility. fearing that any mistakes will be harshly criticized.

**Conflict with colleagues**
Disagreement and confrontation with colleagues can cause a great deal of stress, especially if it is ongoing.

**Job insecurity**
Feeling like your job may be at risk can lead to a great deal of anxiety, as you worry about how you will support yourself and your family if you lose your income.

## How Managers Can Help Employees With Workplace Social Anxiety
There are a number of best practices you can put into practice to address and even [prevent anxiety in your workforce](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/workplace-social-anxiety). 

Some of the ways to tackle workplace social anxiety are discussed below.

### Get to the root cause
If your employees are feeling social anxiety at work, it's important to get to the root cause of the problem. For instance,

- Is there a specific trigger that's causing them to feel anxious? 
- Are they afraid of public speaking or working in a group?

Once you identify the cause of their anxiety, you can figure out [how to overcome workplace anxiety](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/workplace-motivation) and can put together a plan to help them overcome work-related anxiety. 

For example, if they are shy, help them build their confidence by giving them opportunities to interact with others more often. 

Similarly, if they are anxious about a specific task, help them break it down into smaller steps so they can slowly work up to it.

Most importantly, show your employees that you support and understand them. Let them know that you're there to help them through their challenges. 

With your help, they'll be able to learn how to [overcome workplace anxiety and thrive in their career](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/what-is-social-health).

### Be supportive during times of transition
Transitions can be tough for everyone, but they can be especially difficult for those with workplace social anxiety. 

As a manager, you can help your employees who suffer from anxiety by being supportive and understanding. Remember, [social anxiety at work](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/what-is-social-health) can manifest itself in a variety of ways. 

Some people may have trouble speaking up in meetings or interacting with colleagues. Others may withdraw from work activities altogether. 

Regardless of how it manifests, work-related social anxiety can make it difficult for people to do their job and advance in their careers.

As a manager, you can help your employees who are dealing with work-related social anxiety in multiple ways. 

**Be understanding and patient**
First, be understanding and patient. It may take them longer to open up or participate in work activities, but that doesn't mean they're not trying. 

**Offer support and encouragement**
Second, offer support and encouragement. Let them know you're there for them and that you believe in their ability to succeed. 

**Be a good role model**
Finally, be a good role model. Show them that it's okay to be yourself at work and that you don't have to be perfect to be successful.

By following these tips, you can help your employees with social anxiety at work feel supported and accepted during times of transition.

### Be aware of the signs
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States, affecting 40 million adults each year. 

However, only 36.9% of people with anxiety disorders receive treatment.

Oftentimes, people with anxiety disorders don't seek help because they can’t. It may be that they don't even know that they are struggling with something very real. 

Anxiety can be difficult to spot because it manifests itself in different ways for different people. 

Some common signs of anxiety are mentioned below.
- Excessive worry or stress about everyday events.
- Avoidance of activities or situations that cause anxiety
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank

If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone you manage, it's important to reach out for help. Anxiety disorders are treatable, and the sooner you get help, the better. 

### Destigmatize mental health concerns.
It's no secret that mental health concerns are often stigmatized in the workplace. 

This can make it difficult for employees who are struggling with anxiety to feel comfortable seeking help from their managers. 

However, managers can help to destigmatize mental health concerns in the workplace by creating an open and supportive environment.

**Make employees feel comfortable**
One way to do this is to make sure that employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health with you. 

This means being open about your own mental health struggles, if you have them, and creating a safe space for employees to talk about their own concerns. 

It also means being willing to listen without judgment and offer support and resources where appropriate.

**Actively address mental health concerns**
Another way to destigmatize mental health concerns in the workplace is to be proactive about addressing them. 

This means having regular conversations about mental health as part of your team's overall wellness efforts. 

It also means being aware of the signs of anxiety and stress in your employees and offering support before things escalate.

By creating a supportive environment and being proactive about addressing mental health concerns, managers can help to create a healthier workplace for everyone.

This will help organizations break free from the stigmas of mental health and promote overall well-being.

## Promoting Mental Health in the Workplace
It is estimated that one in four adults in the United States will experience a mental health disorder in any given year. 

Despite this, mental health is often seen as a taboo topic, and many people are afraid to talk about it. 

This does not have to be the case as promoting mental health in the workplace can have numerous benefits for both employees and employers. 

There are a number of ways to promote mental health in the workplace. Some of these are mentioned below.

### Maintain a Professional Demeanor
It is important to maintain a professional demeanor at work in order to promote mental health. This means behaving in a way that is respectful, cooperative, and positive. 

It also means refraining from engaging in behavior that is disruptive, disrespectful, or negative.

Some tips for maintaining a professional demeanor at work include:-

- Being punctual and present for work
- Dressing appropriately for the workplace
- Taking breaks as needed, but not overdoing it
- Eating healthy and staying hydrated
- Exercising regularly
- Getting enough sleep
- Practicing good personal hygieneAvoiding gossip and negative talk.

If you are struggling to maintain a professional demeanor at work, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional. 

They can help you identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to your difficulty and provide guidance on how to address them.

### Creating a Supportive Environment
When it comes to reducing anxiety in the workplace, creating a supportive environment is key. Here are some tips for creating a supportive environment in your workplace:

**Encourage open communication**
Make sure your employees feel comfortable communicating with you about their anxiety. This will help you identify any areas where they may need additional support.

**Offer flexibility**
If possible, offer flexible work hours or telecommuting options to employees who suffer from work-related anxiety.

This can help them feel more in control of their environment and reduce stress levels.

**Create an action plan**
If you have an employee who is struggling with work-related anxiety, work with them to create an action plan. 

This plan should include strategies for dealing with anxiety triggers, as well as a support system for when they're feeling overwhelmed.

**Promote a healthy lifestyle**
Encourage your employees to live a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise. This will help them manage their anxiety in the long term.

**Seek professional help**
If you have an employee who is struggling to cope with their anxiety at work, encourage them to [seek professional help from a therapist or counselor](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/what-is-mental-fitness).

**Implementing Mental Health Programs**
If you are searching for a way to build trust between your staff and offer a secure environment that allows them to voice their concerns, [JoinKaya](https://www.joinkaya.com/home) offers the perfect solution. 

[By working with JoinKaya, your organization can foster an improved mental health culture](https://www.joinkaya.com/resources) through group therapy sessions tailored to suit your company’s individual requirements. 

Every group session is designed based on scientific principles and measurable outcomes thanks to the 50+ years of combined [clinical experience of our professionals](https://www.joinkaya.com/for-clinicians). 

Let [JoinKaya’s flexible scheduling options](https://www.joinkaya.com/resources#) help improve the lives of your employees, by downloading the comprehensive JoinKaya e-guide on workplace mental health today.

Start your journey towards a healthier workplace! Book your JoinKaya demo now!

## FAQs
### When should I stop working with anxiety?
If you feel like you are too overwhelmed because of work-related stress and fear that this stress may lead to poor performance at work and will not let you function properly, you may take a mental health leave.

It is best to check in with a mental health provider to help you better cope with further work-related anxiety.

### Is work anxiety normal?
It's usual to feel a little anxious before a major presentation and to stress about things like doing a good job at work or meeting deadlines. In some circumstances, our concern may even provide us with a slight advantage over the competition.

However, if this makes it hard for you to function properly, or impacts your work negatively, reach out to your mental health provider.

### Work-related anxiety symptoms?
Some common work-related anxiety symptoms include:

1. Feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope
2. Difficulty concentrating
3. Trouble sleeping
4. Headaches and muscle tension
5. Racing heart and shortness of breath
6. Avoidance of work tasks
7. Low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness
8. Loss of appetite and nausea
9. Losing interest in work or other activities
10. Panic attacks.

The workplace shouldn't be a stressful place. Dealing with anxiety in the workplace has become more common and it can lead to emotional exhaustion, frustration, and difficulty concentrating.

large_anxiety in the workplace.jpeg

How to help employees suffering from workplace anxiety?