#118. How do I best support someone who experiencing anxiety at work?

We asked Sophia – our AI Guide to the Ceannas knowledge ecosystem to respond to this question.

To best support someone experiencing anxiety about their work, it is important to approach the situation with empathy, understanding, and a focus on their well-being. As a leader, applying the Parent lens, warmth and edge are key to creating an environment where employees can thrive and feel supported while also achieving their full potential.

1. Lead with empathy: Show empathy and understanding towards the individual’s anxiety. Consider their individual needs, challenges, and personal circumstances. Be approachable and available to support them in times of difficulty or stress. This aligns with the Parent lens and the cultural building block of warmth, which focuses on caring, supporting, and nurturing.

2. Regularly check in: Schedule regular one-on-one check-ins with the individual to discuss their progress, challenges, and well-being. Use these meetings as an opportunity to provide guidance, offer support, and address any concerns they may have. This demonstrates your support and shows that you are there to help them overcome their anxiety. Regular check-ins align with the Parent lens of being a caring and supportive leader.

3. Clearly define expectations: Set clear performance expectations for the individual. Communicate specific goals, targets, and objectives that align with organisational success. Clarity helps employees understand what is expected of them and provides a clear direction for achieving desired outcomes. This aligns with the Builder lens of effective planning and organisation, as well as the Parent lens of setting clear and high-performance expectations.

4. . Encourage seeking professional help: It’s important to recognise that anxiety can be a complex issue that may require professional intervention. Encourage the individual to seek support from a therapist, counsellor, or a mental health professional. Emphasise that seeking help is a sign of strength and that there is no shame in reaching out for support. This aligns with the Scientist lens, which emphasises objective and data-informed decision-making.

5. Recognise and celebrate achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate the individual’s achievements, both big and small. Publicly recognise their efforts and express gratitude and appreciation for their contributions. This fosters a sense of validation and boosts their confidence, helping to alleviate anxiety. Recognising achievements aligns with the Builder lens and the cultural building block of recognition.

6. Foster a culture of learning and growth: Encourage the individual to develop skills and techniques to manage their anxiety. Provide opportunities for professional development and training related to stress management, resilience building, or work-life balance. This promotes a learning mindset within the organisation and helps individuals develop their abilities to handle work-related anxiety. This aligns with the cultural building block of Learning, which focuses on growth, curiosity, and a learning mindset.

7. Where possible offer flexible work arrangements: Explore options for flexible work arrangements such as remote work, adjusted schedules, or reduced workload if feasible. This can help alleviate work-related stress and create a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to manage their anxiety effectively. This aligns with the Builder lens of reliable delivery and the cultural building block of Leadership, which focuses on providing direction and support.

8. Foster a supportive community: Encourage the individual to connect with colleagues or support groups to share experiences and receive peer support. This can be done through team-building activities, mentorship programs, or social events that promote a sense of belonging and community within the workplace. This aligns with the Villager lens, which emphasises the importance of relationships, belonging, and community.

By considering the Ceannas lenses, cultural building blocks, and the Wheel of Wise Leadership, you can support someone experiencing work-related anxiety through a combination of empathy, professional support, and fostering a supportive work environment.