3 Steps to Handling Anxiety in Others

In the face of anxiety, these nonverbal communication skills and concrete actions can help.

Anxiety is contagious. How you handle it matters.

Anxiety disorders are the #1 most common mental health condition in the US. They affect almost 20% of the population… so if it’s not you, just look around — someone you work with is dealing with this. Probably many someones.

No everyone wears their feelings on their sleeves, but often you can spot signs of anxiousness. And, as you may have experienced, anxiety can be pretty contagious — right up there with covid and cooties and yawning. Not only might your mirror neurons cause you to match any anxious behavior you see, but human beings secrete chemical “alarm signals” when stressed that others unconsciously pick up on. Just like secondhand smoke, you can inhale and feel the effects of secondhand stress. But it’s less smelly, so it’s easier to overlook!

Supporting a friend or coworker with anxiety is a kind and caring way to respond. But it’s also in your best interests. With a thoughtful and proactive approach, you and the rest of your team can limit anxiety’s extent, maintain a positive working environment, and keep moving forward.

To be clear, it is not your job to “fix” anyone. They don’t need to be fixed. We’re talking about normal…