Our workplace is a dynamic environment where we frequently interact with colleagues, patients, students, and both internal and external vendors. In these interactions, we often share and/or exhibit experiences of stress and anxiety, particularly during uncertain times or after significant events—whether political, social, or economic in nature.

We want you to know it is okay to not be okay, especially in uncertain times. We offer our support and condolences to all who are experiencing stress and anxiety. 

Here are some tips for managing fear, uncertainty, and anxiety as well as how to maintain productivity and well-being in the workplace.

• Acknowledge Emotions
  During times of uncertainty and stress, it is critical to pause, process, and recognize your feelings and emotions.      This can help reduce their negative impact—on your mind, body and soul. 
• Find Healthy Outlets for Stress
  Try taking a walk, whether in your home, your neighborhood, or on campus. Partake in a brief mindful meditation session on YouTube. Keep a sketch book next to your desk or read a quick chapter of a book. Call a friend and check in on them. Studies show helping others boosts your mood and transforms your overall outcome. 
• Create a Supportive Environment
   Find network of people or a group where you feel safe, supported and heard      Here are some Employee Resource Groups that we have here at UC Davis. 
• Focus on What You Can Control
  During uncertain times, focusing on tasks and projects within your control can help keep you grounded and focused. Try breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable tasks and let go of perfection.
• Practice Mindfulness
  Mindfulness exercises can help center your thoughts and reduce stress. Take a few minutes to practice deep breathing or try short mindfulness sessions throughout your day to remain present and focused. We offer free sessions! 
• Set Boundaries
  With our colleagues is important to set clear boundaries, especially during times of stress or after a major event. Disconnecting from work during breaks or after hours can help maintain your mental health and improve work-life balance.
• Seek Professional Support if Needed
  If your stress or anxiety is becoming too overwhelming, it might be helpful to seek professional support. We offer free counseling services to both you and your family members who are over the age of 18. Our Academic Staff Assistance Program has locations on both campus and health. Additionally, the Workplace Violence Prevention team has two counselors, available for drop-in sessions. 

Here is a list of the resources we offer here at UC Davis:

Mental Health First Aid class: Sign Up Now!

Workplace Violence Prevention: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/elr/workplaceviolence/

Academic and Staff Assistance Program (ASAP): https://www.hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/asap

Ombuds: https://ombuds.ucdavis.edu/

Counselor drop-ins: https://ucdavis.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_byI2jDrEAPyQzMa?Q_CHL=qr

Support U Peer Responder Program: clinicalwellbeing@ucdavis.edu