Managing anxiety in the workplace

Nerves and anxiety affect employees of all levels within an organisation especially when tackling something challenging or new. Where anxiety continues for an extended period it can drain confidence, demotivate and lower productivity amongst team members.

Employees experiencing anxiety may display behaviours including heightened emotions, quick tempers or suspicion of others (such as overreacting to comments from colleagues or managers).

Anxiety can also trigger a physical reaction including fatigue, increased heartbeat, muscle aches or shallow breathing.

Research in 2023 found that the five top causes of anxiety in UK workplaces were:

Performance reviews was the most significant cause because employees who expect negative feedback can overthink the situation which then leads to tension in the meeting.

Similar concerns can arise in other face-to-face meetings often triggered by uncertainty around what employees are expected to bring to a discussion. More regular reviews will build familiarity with the appraisal process and clear meeting agendas sent in advance of meetings can reduce anxiety by helping employees to be prepared.

What other steps can employers take to help employees manage anxiety and nerves?

The are a number of tips to you can share with your team to help them keep feelings of anxiety at bay.