Neurodiversity and Anxiety

Written By Brooke Elias

The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 (15th-21st May) is ‘Anxiety’. There are lots of things that can happen in our personal life and work life that can lead to feelings of anxiety, including outside factors such as financial worries that can add to feelings of too.

The NHS describes anxiety as, ‘a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear that can be mild or severe. It becomes a clinical condition when experienced for a prolonged period of time and when it has a significant impact on a person’s life.’

1 in 6.8 people experience mental health challenges in the workplace. In 2022/23, an average of 37.1% of women and 29.9% of men reported high levels of anxiety.

(Ref. 1)

Here are some ways to support individuals when their levels of anxiety have increased:

  • Making adaptions to the working environment where possible or providing a quiet space for when things get too overwhelming

  • Using noise-cancelling headphones to reduce background noise, individuals may also find it helpful to listen to instrumental music while focusing on their breathing

  • Breath work, mindfulness, yoga, and exercise can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety

  • Understanding and individuals triggers and putting a plan in place to support when this happens

  • Having open conversations

  • Reaching out for support from your GP, HR or supportive friends and family

  • Using calming apps such as Brain in Hand, Headspace, Unmind and Zensory.

Neurodiversity & Anxiety

According to ACAS, approximately 1 in 7 individuals have a neurodifference. That is over nine million people across the UK which is about 15% of the workforce.

Although all individuals can experience anxiety for some individuals, especially those who have a neurodifference, anxiety may affect their everyday life and they may find it challenging to cope with the feelings associated. One study found that 54% of people with a learning disability have a mental health problem (Ref. 2) and a recent survey conducted by the National Autistic Society found 47% of autistic people fall into the severe anxiety category based on the GAD (Generalised Anxiety Disorder) diagnostic criteria (Ref. 3).

Anxiety may impact an individual physically, for example, they may feel lightheaded, experience headaches, and find it challenging to control their breathing. It can also further impact focus, concentration, sleep, and overwhelming thoughts. This could in turn lead to changes in their behaviour, such as increased restlessness, challenges with communication, or avoiding places and situations that may increase feelings of anxiety. Social situations and sensory sensitivities can further increase feelings of anxiety.

It’s important to support an individual experiencing anxiety and take the relevant steps to provide them with the support they need to reduce anxiety and overwhelm in the workplace.

Lexxic provides mental health screenings as well as coaching for both individuals and their line manager(s). If you would like some more information on our neurodiversity support services and our mental health screening, please get in touch, we would love to help.

 
 

Check out our Mental Health Resource page

Abigail Tennant - Consulting Business Psychologist
 
Brooke Elias
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