The start of a new year often brings with it the excitement of fresh beginnings, new resolutions, and a renewed sense of motivation. However, for many, this time of year can also bring feelings of anxiety, mixed emotions, and sometimes even dread. If you’re struggling with stress or anxiety at work as the New Year begins, you are not alone. The return to the office after the holidays, or even the transition from remote work back to the office, can amplify these feelings and leave you feeling overwhelmed.
As we enter the new year, it’s important to acknowledge that these feelings are common and there are steps you can take to manage stress and anxiety before they take a toll on your emotional and physical health.
Workplace Anxiety and Stress: The Numbers Don’t Lie
It doesn’t come as a surprise that workplace stress and anxiety are on the rise. A recent survey conducted by Visier revealed some statistics about the mental health of employees in 2023, particularly among younger generations.
| Negative Feelings Experienced in 2023 | % of Employees Reporting |
| Increased burnout | 38% |
| Increased stress or anxiety levels | 33% |
| Increased desire to job search | 30% |
| Decreased motivation | 23% |
| Decreased job satisfaction | 22% |
| Loss of connection to coworkers | 21% |
| Difficulty maintaining work-life balance | 17% |
| Reduced productivity | 8% |
These figures paint a clear picture of the challenges employees are facing. In particular, the younger generations—millennials and Gen Z—who have reported significantly higher levels of anxiety compared to older generations.
- 83% of millennials reported feeling more anxious at work in 2023 than in 2022.
- 76% of Gen Z reported the same.
- On the other hand, only 65% of Gen X and 55% of Baby Boomers felt more anxious.
As an employee, it’s easy to feel like you’re alone in these struggles, but as these statistics show, workplace stress and anxiety are widespread issues that can have a profound impact on both your professional and personal well-being.
What Causes Work-Related Stress and Anxiety?
While a small amount of stress in the workplace is normal, ongoing, or overwhelming stress can lead to significant emotional and physical strain. There are many factors that can contribute to work-related stress, including heavy workloads, time pressures, bad management practices, and more. These can have a cascading effect on your mental health and overall job satisfaction.
Here are some of the most common causes of workplace stress:
- Heavy workload, time pressures, and deadlines
- Poor management practices or role conflict
- Lack of support or control
- Low rewards or career advancement opportunities
- Long hours or management changes
- Challenging work relationships (with colleagues or bosses)
- Harassment or discrimination
- Crisis incidents (e.g., workplace accidents or crises)
When stress is prolonged or left unaddressed, it can lead to burnout, decreased motivation, and job dissatisfaction, which only exacerbate the negative effects on mental and physical health.
The Impact of Work Stress
When stress goes unmanaged, it not only harms the individual but can also have detrimental effects on the organisation. Employees who experience high levels of stress and anxiety may face missed opportunities for professional advancement, financial loss, and deteriorating relationships with colleagues. For organisations, this can result in lower productivity, higher turnover rates, and a disengaged workforce.
So, if you’re an employee feeling the weight of stress, it’s time to take action. Workplaces can be challenging, and managing stress requires both individual and organisational efforts.
Managing Workplace Stress
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by work-related stress or anxiety, taking the first step to address the issue can feel daunting, but it is crucial for your mental health. Here are some ways to manage stress and seek the help you need:
Acknowledge the issue: Recognise that stress and anxiety at work are valid and common concerns, and it’s okay to feel this way.
Talk to someone: Talking through your concerns with someone who is supportive and empathetic, like a psychologist, can help you gain clarity and start the healing process.
Practice self-care: Ensure you are balancing work with personal time to recharge, whether that involves exercising, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
Seek professional help: If your anxiety is persistent or overwhelming, speaking with a psychologist can provide strategies to help you cope with work-related stress and regain your sense of balance.
At our practice, we specialise in helping employees navigate work-related stress and anxiety, providing both individual therapy for employees and guidance for employers who want to support their staff better. We understand the unique challenges of the workplace and offer practical solutions for building resilience, managing anxiety, and improving overall job satisfaction. You might even find reading one or more of the blogs.
Take the First Step Towards Better Mental Health
If you’re feeling anxious or stressed about returning to work or managing the challenges of your job, it’s important to know that help is available. Don’t let work-related stress impact your mental health. Speaking with a psychologist can help you regain control and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Remember, you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out today to start your journey toward better mental health and a more fulfilling work life.
