Related: Anxiety
"In 2022/23, an estimated 875,000 workers suffered from work-related anxiety, depression, or stress, resulting in 17.1 million working days lost"
Definition:
Anxiety, in an official capacity, is characterised as a persistent, excessive worry or fear about everyday situations. It can manifest in various forms such as generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, or specific phobias, significantly impacting an individual's daily life and functioning.
For individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety is a common co-occurring condition, affecting about 40% of people on the spectrum.
The experience of anxiety for someone with Autism can be particularly intense due to challenges in processing sensory information, difficulties with social interactions, and a preference for routine and predictability.
In a workplace setting, supporting an individual with anxiety, especially those on the Autism spectrum, involves creating an environment that fosters understanding and provides necessary accommodations.
By implementing these supportive measures, businesses can create a more inclusive environment where neurodiverse individuals, including those with anxiety, can thrive and contribute effectively to the workplace.
Common traits associated with anxiety in individuals with Autism include:
• Heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli (e.g., noise, lights, textures).
• Difficulty with transitions and changes in routines.
• Social anxiety or difficulty understanding social cues and expectations.
• Perfectionism and fear of making mistakes.
• Physical symptoms such as stomach-aches or headaches.