Mental Health Awareness Week 2023
Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 is just around the corner; this year, the theme is anxiety. It’s no secret that anxiety is a common emotion we all experience, and approximately 60% of adults experience some form of anxiety.
But what can we do about it, and how can employers help with workplace anxiety?
A recent report by Champion Health found that nearly two-thirds of female employees (65%) regularly experience anxiety. The research also revealed that younger employees are more likely to experience anxiety than older colleagues. For employees aged 16-24, 67% reported experiencing anxiety symptoms.
Despite these alarming findings, just 1 in 10 employees are seeking mental health support.
With nearly 60% of employees experiencing anxiety symptoms, proactively managing employee mental health must be at the forefront of any successful workplace health strategy. We have developed helpful strategies to help support yourself and your employees with anxiety.
Firstly, it’s important to identify what triggers your anxiety. Is it work-related stress? Relationship issues? Social situations? Once you know what triggers your anxiety, you can start to implement techniques to help manage and reduce it.
Breathing Exercises
One effective technique to manage anxiety is breathing exercises. It’s a simple but powerful tool that can be used anytime, anywhere. By practising deep breathing exercises, you can calm your mind and body and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
You could try the 4-7-8 breathing technique. Breathe in through your nose, and count to four. Hold your breath and count to seven. Breathe out through your mouth, making a whoosh sound while counting to eight. Repeat three more times.
Physical Exercise
Another effective technique is to incorporate physical exercise into your daily routine. Exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and reduce stress levels. Taking a short walk on your lunch break can do wonders for your mental wellbeing.
Surround Yourself With Nature
Nature can also be a powerful tool in managing anxiety. It can help us disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and connect with our natural surroundings. Spending time in nature, such as walking in a park or green space, can be soothing. Not all of us have access to green space, but bringing plants and greenery into your working environment can be calming.
The Importance Of Sleep
No surprise when you’re stressed or anxious; your body needs extra sleep and rest. Ensuring you get enough restorative sleep can help reduce anxiety levels. You should aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Maintaining a consistent sleep routine will help your body feel more rested and set your body’s natural rhythm.
Connect With Others
Finally, connecting with people you trust and feel comfortable with is essential. Talking to someone about your emotions and feelings can help you feel supported and understood. Whether it’s a close friend, a family member, a colleague or mental health professional, seeking support can make a significant difference in managing anxiety.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s commit to managing our anxiety, promoting positive change in our lives, and supporting others. It’s important to remember to just do your best. Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn’t a possible standard to maintain, be proud of however close you get.
Hashtag #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek and #ToHelpMyAnxiety to join the conversation and spread awareness about the importance of mental health and workplace anxiety.
In support of Mental Health Awareness Week, 15th – 21st May 2023, we are delighted to launch Calm, a limited edition thoughtful gift that gives back.
Download the WellBox Gift Brochure
