The pressures of the modern workplace have come under focus with the young professionals at the receiving end. A recent 'State of Emotional Well-being Report 2024' released by Bengaluru-based employee assistance programme provider 1to1help says an alarming 90% of corporate employees below the age of 25 had anxiety symptoms. As against this, 67% of employees above 45 years were said to suffer from the same. These findings highlight the imperative need for workplace mental health interventions, particularly among the younger workforce.
The report also showed there is a sharp gender gap where, in anxiety scores, women beat men. Reasons for such outcomes were ascertained to emanate from hormonal aspects and social determinants of an individual, whereby the main concern was found in the aspect of professional versus private life balancing demands. According to experts, these outcomes call for tailor-made mental resources and an open social environment to attend to women-specific challenges in a workplace setting.
Rising Risks of Suicide Cases Among Employees
The report revealed several sobering facts, among them the rise in suicide risk for corporate employees from 19% in 2023 to 22% in 2024. The statistics are quite worrying and therefore it is important to take proactive mental health strategies ranging from regular screenings to accessible support systems.
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Work-Life Balance Tips
The challenges are clear, but there are actionable steps both individuals and organisations can take to foster a healthier work-life balance and mitigate anxiety.
1. Set Boundaries
Experts noted that young employees often feel pressured to be available around the clock. Hence, setting clear boundaries for work hours can help establish a healthier balance. Communicate your availability to your team/peers and resist the urge to check emails or messages after work hours to feel less overwhelmed.
2. Maintaining Physical Health
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep will reduce the anxiety level to a great extent. Physical exercise uplifts mood as it releases endorphins–which are the feel-good hormones. Psychologists noted that a rested mind can handle stress better.
3. Mindfulness
Practice mindfulness in the form of meditation or deep breathing exercises. Mindfulness helps you stay in the present moment and not be stressed by things. Yoga, deep breathing, and meditation are a few things you can do to reduce your stress.
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4. Seek Professional Help
If you feel that your thoughts and anxiety are beyond your control, seek professional help. Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide confidential counselling services. These programs help ensure that there is a work-life balance and your mental health is in check.
5. Nurture Relationships
Close relationships with coworkers can be a source of support at work since you spend eight to nine straight hours with them in a day. Sharing experiences and challenges you face at work (or beyond) can reduce feelings of isolation and foster a sense of belonging.
6. Take Breaks
As important as it is to work, taking breaks is equally crucial. Get up from your desk periodically to recharge. Even short tea/coffee breaks can improve focus and reduce stress.
7. Learn Time Management
Learn to prioritise tasks. Breaking large projects into smaller, manageable steps can make workloads feel less daunting. In fact, according to employers, this is the most efficient way to complete your work.
Bottomline
These findings of the 'State of Emotional Well-being Report 2024' are a wake-up call for organisations and individuals too. Organisations can make sure that their most valuable resource-their people-could thrive if the root causes of workplace anxiety are addressed and if an atmosphere for mental well-being is fostered. Proactive steps taken by young employees to adjust work and life could pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable career.