Although many people believe that money is a great motivator, tech workers are still people who experience anxiety and depression, regardless of how much they earn. According to the British Interactive Media Association (BIMA), techies are five times more likely than the general population to suffer from mental health problems. A techie’s typical day entails sitting down in front of a computer all day, trying to meet deadlines while staying up to date with emerging trends in the field. These regular tasks can be demanding and cause anxiety and depression.
Anxiety and depression are frequently brought on by toxic work environments, poor leadership, unclear goals, and work overload in the technology sector. Whether you are working from home or in the office, you must be mindful of your mental health and put YOU first. Watch out for some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression we have covered below, give our advice a shot, and seek help if you feel you need it.
Signs of Anxiety and Depression
- Constantly thinking about work after work hours.
- Lack of motivation and energy to get things done.
- Insomnia or too much sleep.
- Withdrawal or isolation from people.
- Poor or delayed decision-making.
- Low confidence and inability to concentrate on a task.
- Making too many mistakes in daily tasks.
How to Deal with Anxiety and Depression as a Tech Worker
We have established that working in technology can be stressful and that many tech workers suffer from anxiety and depression, but how do you deal with anxiety and depression before it escalates?
- Don’t suppress your anxiety or depression: Accept that you are human and that feeling like you do is normal. The first stage of recovery is acknowledging your emotions. Watch for indications of depression and anxiety, and adhere to the other recommendations listed below.
- Create a routine and stick to it: Maintain a healthy work routine and plan breaks and fun activities to help you relax and unwind after work. A routine allows you to prepare your body and mind for what is to come while also limiting stress.
- Decorate your workspace: Decorate your workspace to your liking, whether you work from home or at the office. Use your favourite colours, try some pleasant scents if you enjoy aromatherapy, and experiment with flowers or other decor options that will make you feel at ease in your space.
- Have workout sessions and hang out with friends: As a tech worker, you almost certainly spend most of your time sitting down with your laptop. You should get up and move around from time to time. You can go to the gym, swim, or simply hang out with friends.
- Know when to stop and take time off: You should learn to say no when you’re exhausted and unable to take on additional projects and when to stop and rest. Working in technology can be exhausting, and the demands are increasing; it is critical that you prioritize your mental health and learn to take breaks when necessary.
