The recession has changed the way we work. Companies have cut back, by laying off and asking those that remain behind to pitch in and do more work or by not hiring, even though the workload could use an additional person. While there are many out of work, those that remain in jobs are stressed. They feel overwhelmed with the amount of work they have to complete and are afraid of losing their jobs. Many stopped taking lunches, opting instead to eat lunch at their desk for fear of falling behind. Others come in early and leave late, wanting to show that they are worth keeping. Those that don't like their jobs, don't get along with their bosses or co-workers or would, under other circumstances, have moved on to greener pastures, feel stuck. They worry about losing their jobs and their homes.

Impact of Stress

The stress is hurting the workforce, emotionally and physically. According to an article on ABCNews, Harris, Rothenberg International operates an Employee Assistance Program which helps with mental health concerns. Since 2008, when the recession began, they have increased their staff by 20 percent to accommodate the increase in the number of calls they receive. These calls aren't all work related, employees call to talk with a counselor about debt, stress, marital problems and their child's behaviors, showing that the stress they feel is impacting just about every part of their life.

Some of the most common situations that cause stress at work are:

• Giving presentations or having to speak in front of co-workers
• Interacting with co-workers
• Fear of failure, not doing your job correctly or not getting enough work completed
• Losing your job
• Not getting along with your boss or your co-workers

Stress, the feeling of being overwhelmed or overworked, can, when not managed properly can lead to physical problems and put you at a higher risk of developing an anxiety disorder. If you already have an anxiety disorder, stress often makes symptoms worse.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Although there are a number of different types of anxiety disorders, each with a specific set of symptoms, the American Psychiatric Association list following symptoms as typical of most anxiety disorders:

• Unrealistic or excessive worry
• Trouble concentrating
• Exaggerated startled reactions
• Problems sleeping: insomnia, waking up through the night, waking up too early
• Nervousness
• Tiredness
• Dry mouth
• Feeling as if there is a lump in your throat
• Trembling
• Sweating
• Heart palpitations

Symptoms of anxiety can interfere with your ability to go to work or your ability to do your job, both of which can lead to higher levels of stress and anxiety.

Understanding Your Rights

You may be eligible for accommodations at work under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Companies with more than 15 employees are required to provide "reasonable accommodations" for people with disabilities. Your anxiety disorder, if it impairs your ability to do your job (not your ability to work-you must be able to do your job with accommodations) may be eligible for accommodations.