Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems we can face. It’s a normal emotion in all of us, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem.
With a quarter of adults reporting to have felt so anxious that it stopped them from doing the things they want to do some or all of the time, what can be done to manage it?
As we welcome Mental Health Awareness Week, an annual campaign run by the Mental Health Foundation, we’re exploring this year’s theme: anxiety.
There are many factors in our lives that can cause anxiety, from challenging personal circumstances like financial worries and medical conditions to a stressful working environment with long hours and tight deadlines. When it comes to accounting, the high-pressure nature of the profession can lead to mental health concerns. A survey conducted by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) found that more than half of accounting professionals had experienced mental health issues, including anxiety, in the workplace.
And when it comes to job searching, this uncertain time can put a strain on our emotions. LinkedIn reports that 61% of professionals say finding a job or career they’re passionate about is the number one cause of their anxiety, whilst 69% of UK job seekers are said to feel anxious during job interviews.
The process can be anxiety-provoking for a variety of reasons, including concerns about job security, securing the right job, and how to come out on top at interviews. So, what can candidates do to reduce their anxiety when job searching?
- Set achievable goals: Job searching can take up more time than you might think, which can be especially challenging if you’re still working in your current role. Set aside an amount of time each day to progress your job search, which is manageable within your day-to-day-life. This will help to reduce anxiety by not overloading your schedule or creating a stressful time-crunch environment.
- Be openminded: It can be tempting to set your sights on a particular job, putting all of your hopes on securing the role, but it’s important to not put all of your eggs in one basket. Even if you’re offered that dream interview, keep your eyes open for other job vacancies while the process is still underway. That way, if the job offer doesn’t come, you’ll already be on track towards a different opportunity.
- Don’t be discouraged: We can all fall foul of feeling disheartened when faced with rejection, but it’s important to remember that when it comes to the recruitment process, it’s not personal. You might feel anxious when you’re not offered an interview, but with so many factors impacting the decision it’s useful to remember that it’s outside of your control. You can only do your best, and the right role will work out for you.
- Try some destress tactics: If the job searching process is becoming overwhelming, try taking some time out to focus on your mental health. Whether that’s going for a walk and getting some fresh air or focusing on a hobby you enjoy to take a break from applications and emails. Doing this can also give you a fresh perspective, so you’ll come back to your computer with a new kick of enthusiasm for finding your dream role.
- Ask for a helping hand: Wouldn’t it be great if a team of specialists could help match you with relevant job vacancies, providing a doorway into some of the leading accountancy practices in the UK? That’s where the team at Public Practice Recruitment Ltd can help…
We know job hunting can be overwhelming and at times frustrating, and that’s why we work closely with candidates to truly understand your skills, experience, and personality to find you a job that you will excel at. We’re securing market-beating salaries, attractive benefits packages, and impressive progression opportunities for talented candidates just like you.
If you’d benefit from a helping hand with your job search – whether you’re ready to submit your CV or just want to have an informal chat about your options – we’re here to help. Contact us in strict confidence today.
