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Anxiety in the workplace

Learn about the importance of supporting employees with anxiety and find ways to help employees feel valued and confident.

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The value of supporting employees with anxiety

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), around half of all work-related ill health is caused by stress, anxiety or depression.

Workplace anxiety is often shaped by organisational systems, not just individual factors. By creating clarity, support and flexibility, employers can help employees feel valued and able to thrive.

Supporting employees experiencing anxiety helps both the individual and organisation.

Key benefits include:

Better work performance

Employees who feel supported are more focused, make better decisions and produce higher quality work.

Less sickness absence

Early support can prevent symptoms from worsening, reducing both short and long-term absence.

Lower risk of burnout

Adjustments and realistic expectations to help people sustain their wellbeing over time.

Higher staff retention

Employees are more likely to stay in a workplace where they feel understood and treated with care. This keeps experienced staff in the team.

Stronger teamwork

When employees feel psychologically safe, communication improves and teams collaborate more effectively.

A healthier workplace culture

Open conversations about mental health reduce stigma and build a positive, respectful environment.

Greater trust in managers

Compassionate, knowledgeable line managers help employees feel safe to speak up.

Lower organisational costs

Reduced absence and turnover save money on recruitment, training and lost productivity.

Compliance with duty-of-care responsibilities

Meeting health and safety and equality requirements protects employees and employers.

Increased resilience

Employees who feel supported are better able to adapt, problem-solve and cope with change.

Find out more about mental health and wellbeing,  stress management and burnout and fatigue in the workplace.

Page last reviewed: 28th May 2026