A nationwide survey found that 50 percent of workers experience the “Sunday Scaries” before returning to work after time off. In comparison, another 40 percent say they struggle with “Imposter Syndrome.” The Sunday scaries are feelings of intense anxiety and dread that routinely occur every Sunday. Imposter syndrome is an internal experience of believing you are not as competent as others perceive you to be.
What Will You Do As The Employer?
If you’re an employer and you find that your employees feel anxiety when returning to work, what will you do to combat their feelings? Approximately seven million individuals in the U.S. have been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, making it the most common mental illness. Employees who participated in the isolved’s survey stated that their employer could help reduce symptoms of Imposter Syndrome and the anxiety of returning to work by meeting with supervisors regularly and providing resources to minimize burnout.
The following are steps you can take to reduce anxiety amongst your employees:
- Set reasonable expectations
- Communicate frequently
- Let employees know they're appreciated, especially in high-stress times
- Keep your personal life personal
- Avoid discussing politics or incendiary topics
- Break up the normal routine
- Consider hiring an occupational therapist for your team or provide outside resources for counseling/therapy
Ask your employees what you can do to help ease their anxiety or how you can reduce burnout. Individuals may want to meet one-on-one with their supervisor, while others may want to meet with an outside resource, such as a therapist. You won’t know the answers until you ask.
Where GMS Comes Into Play
At GMS, our experts work diligently with you and your team to make your business run simpler, safer, and stronger. While we can’t ultimately take away the anxiety your employees may be feeling; we can certainly provide you with resources that will be able to help. When you partner with GMS, we assist you in conducting performance reviews. You need to communicate with your team to understand where they’re at, how you can help, and answer any questions your employees have. In addition, we have a 24/7 nurse triage hotline your employees can utilize if they are feeling anxious and need to speak with a professional. We are a one-stop shop providing you with risk management, payroll, HR, and benefits assistance. Contact us today.