It is common for senior staff experiencing anxiety to seek private anxiety support rather than using in-house resources for several reasons related to confidentiality, the nature of their roles, and the limitations of workplace support.
Confidentiality and Stigma:
- Senior staff may be concerned about the potential for their struggles with anxiety to become known within the workplace, especially if there is a stigma attached to mental health issues.
- They may worry that revealing their anxiety to colleagues or in-house support staff could negatively impact their professional reputation or career progression.
- The desire for discretion can make external, private support more appealing, as it offers a confidential space away from the work environment.
- People who experience anxiety may feel embarrassed or ashamed, so it is less likely they will seek help in a place where they might be seen by colleagues.
Limitations of In-House Resources:
- In-house resources may not be equipped to deal with complex issues or may lack specialised expertise in anxiety disorders. Often, in house resources are stretched, and they may not be able to offer the intensive, individualised support required.
- Some in-house support might focus on general stress management, rather than on the specific needs of people with anxiety.
- Senior staff might perceive in-house resources as less effective or less credible than external, private coaches who are seen as specialists in the field.
- The nature of many in-house programmes may be too general, with a lack of tailored approaches or specific tools.
Role and Responsibilities:
- Senior staff often face high levels of pressure, responsibility, and scrutiny, which may contribute to their anxiety. They may feel they have a need to keep up appearances and project an image of competence and control.
- They may also have significant levels of responsibility for the wellbeing of others within their workplace and have to keep their own difficulties hidden.
- The high-stakes nature of their positions can make it more difficult for senior staff to acknowledge their vulnerabilities within the workplace.
- The higher up the career ladder a person is, the less likely it may be that they have somebody they can trust to talk to.
Control and Autonomy:
- Seeking private support allows senior staff to maintain a sense of control over the support process, including choice of coach, approach and scheduling.
- This sense of autonomy can be especially important for individuals who may feel a lack of control in other areas of their professional life.
- They may feel that using in-house resources will be another thing they are forced to do by their employer, rather than their own choice.
Perception of Value:
- Private anxiety support is often perceived as a more prestigious or valuable resource, particularly for high-achieving individuals, and can be seen as a way of investing in their professional and personal well-being.
- The idea of seeking help from an external expert may align better with their self-image and values.
Focus on Performance and Outcomes:
- Senior staff are often focused on results and high performance, which may cause them to seek out specific expertise that will allow them to continue to achieve their goals.
- Private coaches can offer specific strategies for managing workplace anxiety and improving performance, as well as helping with career progression.
- Coaches often focus on action and practical tools, which fits well with a performance orientation.
If your anxiety levels are causing you problems at work, and you feel you cannot turn to the organisation for support then reach out and see if I can help you.
In Summary, senior staff may prefer private anxiety support due to concerns about confidentiality and stigma, limitations of in-house resources, the demands of their roles, a desire for control and autonomy, a perception of higher value from private specialists, and a focus on performance outcomes. Private coaches are often seen as experts, who can tailor their approach and offer a confidential space for individuals to address their anxiety and move forward.