Why so sad?

Earlier this year SHRM reported that anxiety is the number one mental health issue in the workplace. "Work anxiety" can significantly impact one's home life in several ways, leading to irritability, mood swings and emotional exhaustion, but so can personal anxiety, each pouring over into work and home life.

Of course, changes in labor and financial markets, job losses etc., have added stress for companies and employees alike, however, additional outside factors contribute to our overall mental as well. Technology is paradoxical, on one hand it brings numerous benefits but also brings about continuous challenges.

How much of your "work anxiety" is a residual effect of job unhappiness or a comprehensive effect of both work stress and information overload?

Constant social connectivity and 24/7 news coverage can have an adverse effect and can contribute to feelings of depression in several ways.

• Information Overload: Continuous exposure to news and social media can overwhelm. I personally don't feel it was ever intended for one person to know all the exact happenings of the world in real time. To be blunt, "it's too much!"
• Negative Bias: The news usually highlights negative events; this is problematic because it can skew perceptions and lead to an overestimation of negative events and can create feelings of hopelessness and despair.
• Comparison and Self-Esteem: Social media platforms can promote comparison and feelings of inadequacy, leading to life dissatisfaction.
• Reduction in Face-to-Face Exposure: The lack of "real-life" support can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
• Selective Exposure: People may seek out news and social media content that confirms their existing beliefs or fears, creating echo chambers that reinforce negative emotions or perspectives.

We may not be able to change the financial, political or social climate but we can change how we absorb, utilize and expend it. One must make a living in order to provide, our contentment and happiness should be an utmost priority. Neglecting to do so will consistently cause burnout and exhaustion and only perpetuate more of the same.

Our happiness and the removal of negative feelings, at work and at home, begins with us, we hold the power to shape our joy by consciously choosing positivity, regardless of our circumstances, and letting go, completely, of what does not serve us, both personally and professionally.

"Anxiety Is Now the Top Mental Health Issue in the Workplace (shrm.org), Mayer, Kathryn, SHRM, April 03, 2024.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this personal newsletter are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Northrop Grumman, the author’s employer. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as representing views of the company.