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I have difficulty focusing on work due to ongoing national events and a relentless news cycle. I know that I’m not alone.
Elaine Varelas provides guidance on staying focused at work amid a relentless news cycle.
Q. With all that is going on in our country and the relentless news cycle, it is increasingly hard to focus on work. I really don’t know how people are just working and carrying on as if things are “normal.” I try to limit my news consumption, but I do need to stay informed of important issues that might affect me and my family. Can you recommend any coping strategies so that I can focus on continuing doing a good job at work while under so much stress? I want to take a “mental health” day every single day!
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A. Daily political changes are more prominent in the news with this administration. Regardless of which side you land on, you have to agree that that’s true. Which leaves people wondering what will happen next that might impact them. And whether it’s national, international, or local news, it’s important to stay informed.
The constant onslaught of news and information can be overwhelming, whether it’s news of war or impending war, potential financial crashes in the marketplace, changes in healthcare, concerns over job security, etc. Many people have tried to limit the amount of news that they consume. Yet they’re concerned about what impact all these changes might have on their families, their children, their parents, and their job. So, this level of anxiety is something that many psychologists, mental health providers, and school counselors are talking about in terms of how they can best support individuals. Many employee relations professionals are discussing how to support individuals who absorb high levels of stress and find it difficult to cope. Any kind of continued stress can absolutely impact an employee’s performance, in any kind of role.
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Many HR professionals have noted a rise in absenteeism, with productivity fluctuating depending on the day’s news. They also report that maintaining a positive mindset among employees is becoming increasingly difficult, and remote only work can lead to isolation.
Your first impulse to limit the amount of information you take in is absolutely a step in the right direction. Kathy Greer, a leader in workplace mental health and founder of KGA, Inc, an EAP and Work Life Program, provided some insights on this topic. Kathy suggests that it’s helpful to return to your trusted stress management and mindfulness techniques, like pausing to think before you speak and finding healthy ways to let go when you feel upset about events happening in the world. To get to that place, it can be helpful to spend time in nature, so be sure that you allow time to be outdoors. Breathing exercises are the best way to calm yourself down under pressure. All these coping skills will help you sleep better. And sleep gives you the energy to face a difficult day ahead. It’s also important to maintain physical activity and a healthy diet with minimal sugar and alcohol.
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And I agree. It may be appealing to just hang out on the couch and watch TV when you feel overwhelmed and upset. However, stepping outside for a walk or engaging in any physical activity you enjoy will be beneficial. I’d also limit the amount of commiserating with others. While seeking support is important, there comes a point when it stops being beneficial.
Think of work as a refuge and escape from all the stuff you are worried about. And while we can’t advocate for every day being a mental health day, try to take some time every day during your workday to go outside and be in nature, pet your cat or dog, have a short yoga session, walk around the block, etc. Incorporating small mental health breaks can help manage anxiety and sustain productivity despite external pressures.
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