It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or even anxious when it comes to balancing the conflicting priorities at work (paired with everyday life). Although there isn’t always an immediate cure for anxiety at work, there are steps that organisations can help create a genuinely inclusive environment that promotes mental wellness, fosters a supportive and empathetic workplace and in turn, enhances the overall success of a business.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at a range of approaches for employers to consider so that they can provide meaningful support to their employees facing anxiety at work. Below are some breakdowns of how employers initiate and nurture a supportive workplace culture:
- Encourage Open Communication
Establishing an atmosphere of trust and open communication is crucial in supporting employees with anxiety. Start by encouraging team members to discuss their challenges and concerns without judgment. Occasional/regular check-ins, team meetings, or one-on-one sessions can provide opportunities for employees to express their feelings and share their experiences. By actively listening and validating their concerns, employers can foster a culture of understanding and empathy.
- Promote Work-Life Balance:
Striking a healthy work-life balance is an essential for part managing workplace anxiety. Aid your employees to prioritise self-care by setting clear boundaries between work and personal life for example, encouraging staff to take regular breaks, to use their annual leave entitlement, and discouraging excessive overtime. Depending on the nature of the work, where possible employers can offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid work, working from abroad, flexible hours and well-being days.
- Foster a Supportive Work Environment:
Creating a supportive work that encourages collaboration and teamwork can significantly impact employees’ experience at work. It’s pivotal to a supportive work environment to promote a culture of appreciation and recognition, where achievements and efforts are acknowledged and celebrated, for example monthly shout-outs, awards and pay reviews or other incentives. Consider regular team-building activities and social events that can strengthen relationships and create a sense of belonging and community.
- Provide Mental Health Resources:
Sometimes, employers or line managers may not have the tools or capacity to support each member of staff with each issue along with the demands of their workload. Organisations can mitigate this by offering access to things like counselling or therapy services, mental health well-being days. As employers, ensure that your employees are aware of their rights and the company’s offerings regarding mental health support. By providing these resources, employers demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their workforce.
- Implement Stress-Reduction Initiatives:
Some organisations have taken a more holistic approach to promote mental & physical health and well-being by introducing stress-reducing initiatives such as mindfulness or meditation sessions, yoga classes, or wellness programs. Also where possible, establishing quiet spaces or breakout areas away from your desk/typical working area where employees can take short breaks to relax, recharge and regroup.
- Offer Training and Support for Managers:
Support managers or team leads with the necessary skills to identify and support employees struggling with anxiety. Providing training on mental health awareness, stress management techniques, and effective communication is pivotal in perpetuating from the top down a more open and supportive work culture. Initiate by encouraging managers to be approachable and understanding, so employees feel comfortable seeking support when needed. A well-informed, “self-aware” and supportive management team can make a significant difference in employee well-being.
There are many different avenues that employers can consider when supporting employees struggling with anxiety. It is not only compassionate, but also a strategic investment in your organisation’s success. I mean, the employees make the organisations wheels go round after all.
By fostering a nurturing workplace environment, prioritising mental health and open communication, and providing the necessary resources, employers can empower their employees to work to over anxiety in a supportive environment and thrive both personally and professionally..
