Shining a Light on Anxiety: Mental Health Awareness Week 2023

Posted on: 17 May 2023 by Adele Curley in Blog posts

In this post, we explore the impact of anxiety, discuss strategies to cope with it and emphasize the importance of creating a supportive environment within EEECS.

Understanding Anxiety:

Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition that affects individuals in various aspects of their lives, including at work or University. In the demanding and competitive environment of academia, students and staff may face unique stressors that contribute to feelings of anxiety. It's crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of anxiety, such as excessive worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical manifestations like rapid heartbeat or difficulty sleeping.

Strategies to Cope with Anxiety:

• Open Communication: Encouraging open discussions about mental health and anxiety within the School fosters a supportive environment. Students and staff can share their experiences, seek advice, and offer support to one another.
• Seek Support: Students are able to access a wide variety of resources such as support from the Learning & Teaching Support Officers at Faculty-level and central Student Services, which includes wellbeing services, mental health workshops and self-help guides. Staff are able to access similar services through the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). These resources can equip individuals with coping mechanisms, stress management techniques, and self-care strategies.
• Mindfulness Practices: Incorporating mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can help reduce anxiety and promote overall well-being. 
• Time Management and Work-Life Balance: Effective time management skills are essential in managing anxiety. As a School, we encourage our students and staff to prioritise self-care, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and set realistic goals which can alleviate stress and anxiety.
• Peer Support Networks: Attending peer support networks can provide individuals with a sense of belonging and understanding. Group activities, study groups, or mentorship programs can help you feel supported and provide you with a healthy outlet for your anxiety.

Mental Health Awareness Week provides a valuable opportunity for the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics & Computer Science to highlight the importance of tackling our anxiety. By understanding anxiety, implementing coping strategies, and growing a supportive environment, we can contribute to the wellbeing and success of students and staff in our School. Let us stand together, raise awareness, and ensure that no one battles anxiety alone.