How to spot anxiety at home and work

Feel like the air’s a little thicker than normal? Here’s a few tips on how to keep it clear and calm.  

There’s no denying that the world’s been a little crazier than normal. Floods, fires and lockdowns have been adding up and taking their toll on even the most stoic of our colleagues and family members (including the dog – they’re very intuitive). 

But even the most chiselled poker face has its tells when it comes to anxiety. So, here’s a few tips on how to spot the signs of anxiety at home and work, and what you can do about it. 

When it comes to friends and family, we’re all on watch. That’s because we know that stress can be infectious, and it’s important to stand guard against an unhappy workplace or household. You never know – you might see a few of these traits in yourself. 

Keep your eyes peeled for these red flags in particular:

1. Difficulty sleeping

2. Irritability

3. Defiance

4. Swings in mood

5. Lack of focus

6. Avoidance

7. Negativity

8. Over planning

When it comes to anxiety, sometimes the best defence is a good offence. Try a few (or all) of these simple strategies to take the pressure down.  

1. Stop and take a break. Have a cup of tea. Look out the window. Breathe

2. Recognise that anxiety and a range of strong feelings are normal

3. Minimise the amount of ‘bad news’ media you consume

4. Resist Googling bad news too

5. Try stretching in your chair

6. Eat plenty of healthy food. 

7. Take in a deep breath and let it our very slowly. Do this 5 times.

8. In your mind, rest your eyes on 5 things that you can see in your room where you are. Take your time. Now, move to hearing – what are 4 things you can hear? Now touch. What are three things you can touch? And then what are 2 things you can smell and one thing you can taste right now? 

9. Try a meditation or mindfulness app

10. Try a yoga class on Optus Sport Fitness – there are plenty classes for people at all levels 

11. Schedule some exercise

12. If you’re feeling anxious, allocate specific time to worry. Allow half an hour (not before bedtime), and if your worries come up at other times, remind yourself that you’ll worry about it at the allocated time.

13. Talk to a friend on the phone or FaceTime/Skype/Zoom.

14. Keep it simple – slow down and just do what is in front of you.

Want help to be a hero?

Even still, you might like to check on someone who you don’t live or work with. Try this handy letter template – designed by us to help you stay connected with neighbours and people nearby. 

Get the letter > 

This piece was produced with the help of our friends at Benestar. Be your best you.  

If you’re looking for a way to bring your family together, explore our Family Plans.

To help reduce stress and anxiety, try a workout from Optus Sport Fitness, or Explore the Smart Watches that can help you stay active.  

This article is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, heal or prevent any disease or medical condition. We encourage you to do your own research and to discuss with a qualified healthcare practitioner the options that could work the best for your specific circumstances