If the state of the world is causing you some mix of fear, stress, and anxiety, you are far from alone. According to the American Psychiatric Association’s 2024 mental health poll, anxiety is on the rise for U.S. adults, with 43% saying they feel more anxious than the previous year, up from 37% in 2023 and 32% in 2022. Top of the stressor list are the economy (77%), current events (70%), the upcoming presidential election (73%), and gun violence (69%). Many say they feel powerless in the face of so many worries, yet there are ways to better cope with these stressors:
Shift Your Mindset
Yes, we are absolutely in difficult times. But dwelling on negative thoughts will increase your stress without actually removing any of the stressors. Rather than ignore these feelings, it is better to recognize them consciously and label them. Sit with these thoughts rather than pushing them away. Consider what is causing the stress and determine which elements of the stressful stimuli can be managed. Can you find some positive element in the situation? If finding the positive isn’t possible or if it only partially works, segregate yourself from the stress-provoking events. Tell yourself, “I’ll put it aside and dwell on it for no longer than 15 minutes at a later time. In the meantime, I have other things to do.” Avoid feeling shame or placing blame (especially on yourself) and recognize, as this poll shows, that most Americans feel similarly concerned.
Stay Connected
According to the poll, younger Americans aged 18-34 are much more likely to say that social connections greatly impact their mental health, yet it's important for everyone to feel connected both at work and in one's personal life. Often, doing something to help others can greatly diminish negative feelings, so consider any local volunteer groups in your area. Or, see if there is a way for you to help others through your organization, whether it's mentoring others or working on any non-profit work the organization may champion.
Focus on Your Team
If you are managing others, you have a responsibility to recognize the increasing anxiety most people are facing. Reach out to your direct reports and invite them to discuss any well-being issues that might be concerning. Ask them what specific challenges they are facing and ask them directly how you can help. (And if they don't want to have these conversations at work, be respectful of that right as well). Remember, you may not know what people are dealing with privately.
If you lead an employee listening program at your organization, as many of our readers do, consider adding a mental health index to your employee survey. These actionable insights can help direct your organization to improve or launch wellness initiatives that your employees greatly need.
Make Time for Self-Care
According to the American Psychiatric Association’s poll, most Americans say that stress (53%) and sleep (40%) have the biggest impact on their mental health. The best ways to limit stress and increase quality sleep are exercise, meditation, and deep breathing. Limiting alcohol can also greatly impact both stress and sleep. According to the Mayo Clinic, any form of exercise from aerobics to yoga can act as a stress reliever by pumping up your endorphins. Taking the time to take care of yourself is critical, and likely much more in your control than many other things impacting your mental health. Talk to your organization to see what kind of well-being benefits are available.
