Anxiety, Work, and Coping

Using the backdrop of the uncertainty and anxiety triggered by the recent recession, this article briefly summarizes the research into the connections between elevated normal anxiety and various work outcomes. Anxiety's particular relationships to work habits and attitudes, work relationships, and performance are described. Findings for senior executives also are presented in summary. The weight of evidence clearly indicates that chronic anxiety can have many disastrous outcomes for employees, leaders, and their organizations. The author proposes a number of potential practical strategies that could be provided by a manager or a consultant for addressing both employees' and managers' anxiety. Specific suggestions include perspective taking, communication strategies, anxiety relief tactics, diversions, self-reflection and self-help, and reviewing possible scenarios. The author ends on an optimistic note without minimizing the possible consequences of chronic anxiety.