by Matt Torjussen, ANV Measurement Systems
Anxiety is a feeling of stress, panic or fear that can affect your everyday life both physically and psychologically. [1] With varying symptoms, anxiety usually has an impact on how you feel physically and mentally, as well as on behaviour. One in four people in the UK will have a mental health concern at some point[2] in their lives, with anxiety and depression being the most common manifestations.
The cost of living in the UK is at an all-time high and after an intense period of uncertainty due to the COVID pandemic, and the associated financial challenges, members of the IOA may be experiencing higher levels of anxiety than those to which they are accustomed. If a colleague is struggling with anxiety, it can be difficult to know how to proceed, so here are some things that might help:
- Try not to put pressure on them to do more than they feel comfortable with. It's important to be patient. If they feel comfortable, ask about their experience, how anxiety affects their day-to-day life and try to understand what makes it better or worse.
- Listening to how they experience things could help you to empathise with how they feel. Your colleague may already know how you can support them.
- By asking them what they need or how you can help, you can support them to feel less overwhelmed and more in control themselves.
- Reassure them that there is someone around who knows what to do if they start to feel frightened or panicked. This could help them feel safer and calmer.
- If you think your colleague’s anxiety is becoming a problem for them, you could encourage them to seek treatment by talking to a GP or therapist.
- You should set boundaries and don't take on too much, as it is important to decide what your limits are and how much you feel able to help.
- Share your caring role with others if you can. It's often easier to support someone if you're not doing it alone.
The Institute of Mechanical Engineers is running an event on Tuesday 6th September 2022 entitled “Understanding Anxiety” that covers positive life habits that may help to minimise anxiety. Member may sign up here:
Look out for your colleagues, especially at this difficult time, and remember that you don’t need to face anxiety alone.
[1] Anxiety and panic attacks - NHS (www.nhs.uk), Accessed 22/09/02
[2] https://www.hse.gov.uk/stress/mental-health.htm, Accessed 22/09/02
