Work plays a major role in anxiety. Many people stress out over meeting deadlines, achieving goals, making money, and just dealing with others. In 2019, 94% of Americans reported stress at work with 23% describing stress levels as high and 6% describing them as extremely high.
Employers have recognized the stress-work correlation and many of them have been taking steps to produce a less stressful work environment. But there are also things you can do to reduce work-related anxiety. Here are a few suggestions.
Do a Mindful Exercise in the Morning
Many people start their day by checking their phone or emails which immediately elevates stress levels. Instead, try starting out with a mindful exercise like meditation or yoga. This will be a good way to ease into your day with less stress.
Focus on Strengths
Focus on projects that you are good at and that gives you satisfaction. Do your best to delegate tasks that capitalize on your weakness to others.
Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
There will always be people that excel in certain areas, and if you compare yourself to them, it will cause feelings of depression and low self-esteem. Instead of trying to measure up to them, focus on yourself. Compare yourself to who you were yesterday and go from there to boost your self-confidence.
Take a Walk Around the Block
If you are feeling stressed out at work, take a break by walking around the block. The exercise will boost your endurance levels and going outside will expose you to nature which has physical and psychological benefits. You will come back to work more focused which will boost productivity.
Find the Humor
Sometimes upsetting things happen at work. But it’s important to try to find the humor in these incidents. Laughing releases endorphins in the brain improving mood. It keeps you from dwelling on the negative.
Learn Something New
Learning a new skill will improve your sense of self-esteem. It will also break you out of your rut and alleviate boredom that may be tied to depression.
Talk to Others
If you have ongoing issues at work, talking about them can help. Find a friend or family member you trust and let them know what you are going through. If a friend of family member isn’t available, you may consider working with a therapist or sharing your feelings on a social media mental health group.
Do Things for Others
Helping others has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood and self-esteem. The way you help others can be as simple as picking up a co-worker’s dropped items. Other examples include assisting with a project or volunteering for a charity supported by your company or not.
Work is just one of the many things that can negatively affect mental health. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, and other issues, do not hesitate to reach out to Progressive Ketamine. We offer solutions that will enhance your emotional wellbeing.
