Tips for dealing with anxiety

In the modern era of hybrid working, the lines between work and personal life can often blur, sometimes resulting in stress and anxiety. Mental Health Awareness Week (13^th-19^th May) has been designed to tackle the stigma and focus on normalising discussion about mental health. The theme for 2024 is ‘anxiety’ and we thought it would be an opportune time to share some invaluable tips on how to keep stress at bay.

1. Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks
   

   Don’t take on too large a workload as it can quickly become overwhelming. Combat this by breaking down your tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks. You can create a to-do list using time management software such as ‘Trello’ to help tackle them one task at a time. Celebrate each small victory along the way, as this can boost your confidence and reduce feelings of anxiety about looming deadlines.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Care

   Amidst the hustle and bustle of working life, it's crucial to carve out time for self-care and mindfulness practices. Incorporate activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine to centre yourself and alleviate stress. Take regular breaks throughout the day to recharge and nourish yourself and keep your mind clear. Remember, prioritising your well-being in this way can ultimately be better for long-term success.

3. Find a community

   It can be easy to feel isolated, but you are not alone in your journey. You can reach out to others for support by joining online communities or attending local meetups to connect with like-minded individuals. Having a support system can provide invaluable emotional support and perspective, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety.

4. Be more active

   Exercise is a proven method of improvising your physical and mental health. This doesn’t mean you have to do anything too strenuous, you could start with a short walk or some body weight exercises. Alternatively, you could find a physical hobby you enjoy doing either on your own or with colleagues after work.

5. Seek Professional Help if Needed

   Despite our best efforts, there may be times when stress and anxiety become overwhelming and interfere with our ability to function. If you find yourself struggling to cope, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Whether it's therapy, counselling or reaching out to a mental health professional, find someone who can provide you with valuable support and guidance.

It's essential to remember that managing anxiety is not only possible but crucial for your well-being and success. By implementing these tips into your freelance routine, you can cultivate a healthier, more balanced approach to work and life and if there’s any useful tips you think we left off this list please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on social media.