#10 – Anxiety-Less at Work, with Jacqueline Lopez

Jacqueline Lopez, a graduate researcher at the University of Nevada, Reno, returns to the AVIDly Adulting podcast and shares her perspectives on the impact of anxiety in the workplace and strategies for overcoming it. She discusses the importance of peer and mentor relationships in mitigating anxiety at work. She also emphasizes the need for maintaining transparency with managers, utilizing workplace resources, and practicing mindfulness. Jacqueline highlights the differences between stress and anxiety, noting that stress is short-term and situational, while anxiety is persistent and can disrupt daily life. She recommends seeking professional help if anxiety persists for more than a few weeks or interferes with daily functions. Jacqueline also suggests using resources like the National Institute of Mental Health, apps like Headspace and Calm, and hotlines like the SAMHSA National Helpline and Crisis Text Line.

Peer relationships can really normalize our shared struggles, which makes us as individuals feel less isolated. And even mentors can offer a perspective—their advice and their encouragement—which helps early career professionals navigate the workplace, as well as the challenges, with greater confidence.

Jacqueline Lopez, Graduate Researcher at the University of Nevada, Reno