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Workplace anxiety is an increasingly prevalent issue affecting millions of people worldwide. While it’s normal to experience occasional stress at work, chronic workplace anxiety can significantly impact one's mental health, work performance, and overall well-being. The recent tragic death of a Pune-based Ernst & Young (EY) employee has brought this issue to the limelight which shows the severe consequences of overworking and workplace stress.
Triggers Of Workplace Anxiety And Stress
Workplace anxiety can happen due to various factors, including a high-pressure work environment, challenging tasks, demanding supervisors, or difficult colleagues. Dr Asim Shah, executive vice chair in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine, explains that workplace anxiety is common, with about 60 per cent of employees experiencing it at some point.
“The goal is not to suffer and not let your anxiety affect work performance,” Dr. Shah explains. “It is common, which means you can do something about it.”
Workplace anxiety manifests in several ways, including feeling overly anxious or nervous, sweating excessively, trembling, or obsessing over tasks. It may also cause employees to lose interest in their work or experience significant difficulty concentrating. According to Dr. Shah, when these symptoms persist for more than six months, it may be time to seek professional help.
The Consequences of Ignoring Workplace Anxiety
Unchecked workplace anxiety can lead to devastating outcomes. A tragic example is the death of a CA at Ernst & Young employee from Pune, India, who reportedly died due to overwork and excessive stress. This shows the dangers of pushing employees beyond their limits without addressing mental health needs. In highly competitive industries like finance and consulting, the pressure to meet deadlines, handle challenging projects, and deliver constant high performance can push employees to breaking points.
Without proper intervention, workplace anxiety can lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and severe health complications like heart disease, depression, and, as seen in extreme cases, death.
Signs of Workplace Anxiety And Stress
Workplace anxiety can manifest in subtle ways. Some employees may find themselves obsessing over tasks, feeling a constant sense of dread or fear about their job performance, or experiencing physical symptoms such as trembling, sweating, or heart palpitations. Others may notice a decline in productivity or interest in their work. Over time, these feelings can impair daily functioning and reduce overall job satisfaction.
“The anxiety becomes so overwhelming that you are unable to focus and concentrate,” Dr. Shah noted in a Baylor news release. If such feelings persist over time, it can take a toll on both personal and professional life, leading to deteriorating mental health and worsening job performance.
Strategies for Managing Workplace Anxiety
Fortunately, there are ways to manage workplace anxiety before it spirals out of control. Dr. Shah offers several recommendations to help employees cope with work-related stress. One of the most effective methods is addressing the root causes of anxiety. Whether it’s a difficult boss, an overwhelming workload, or interpersonal conflicts, identifying the source can help develop targeted coping strategies.
For some, making small adjustments to the work routine—such as prioritizing tasks, breaking up large projects into manageable steps, or seeking assistance from colleagues—can significantly reduce anxiety. Establishing boundaries, such as maintaining a healthy work-life balance and taking regular breaks, can also make a big difference.
Another approach is seeking professional help. Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide counselling and mental health resources. If these options aren’t available, employees can also explore psychotherapy, which helps individuals understand and manage anxiety. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), in particular, is a popular technique used to alter negative thought patterns and behaviours. In severe cases, medication may be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety.
Dr Shah also advises looking into relaxation techniques like meditation, mindfulness, or yoga, which can help calm the mind and reduce stress. These practices encourage individuals to focus on the present moment and manage overwhelming feelings. Developing a strong support system, whether through friends, family, or co-workers, is equally essential.