Work can be a serious trigger for those suffering from anxiety disorders, especially if your job is fast-paced and stressful. While there may not be much you can do about your working environment, there are steps you can take to combat the symptoms and keep them from affecting your performance. If you’re prone to work-related anxiety, the steps below can help you cope.

Dealing With Workplace Anxiety

Cut Back on Caffeine

Some of us can’t imagine starting the day without a fresh, hot cup of coffee, but that morning caffeine fix could be contributing to your anxiety. As a psychoactive stimulant, caffeine can trigger a variety of symptoms in those predisposed to anxiety disorders, including sweaty palms, panic attacks, and a racing pulse. Try relaxing with a cup of herbal tea in the morning instead, and stay away from caffeine while you’re at work.

Get a Workout

Exercise has a powerful effect on the mood, calming the nervous system and resetting your heart rate. A vigorous workout before work will help settle your nerves and make you ready to face the day ahead. If you’re not an early riser, try exercising right after work instead.

Make Stress a Game

If you can’t eliminate the stressors that cause anxiety, you can redefine them into a personal game. For instance, you might try creating a bingo card that includes all of the specific instances that stress you out over the course of the day. Marking down stressors as they happen and rewarding yourself for completing a bingo will help you take a step back and reduce your anxiety before it affects you.
 

If you’re struggling to deal with work-related anxiety, turn to Sondra Sexton-Jones in Juneau, AK. With more than 25 years of experience working with a wide range of disorders and traumas, she’ll provide the guidance you need to work past your challenges. To schedule your first appointment, visit her website or call (907) 586-3313, and follow her Facebook for more mental health tips.