Why Nervous System Regulation is Crucial to Creating Community at Work

Jun 18

Gallup's research shows that employees with a best friend at work are seven times more likely to be highly engaged in their work. However, a recent Workforce Confidence Index reveals that nearly half of U.S. workers do not report having a friend at work. Specifically, just over half of U.S. workers say they have a friend at work, with slightly better results for those at the director level or above, where 56% report having at least one friend at work.

These reports, while informative, don't tell the full story. Do employees want friends at work? Do they have time for friendships? And perhaps most importantly, are their nervous systems regulated enough to allow for meaningful connections?

What is a Regulated Nervous System?

A regulated nervous system means that an individual is in a state of balance where they can effectively manage stress and respond to their environment in a calm and composed manner. Physiologically, this state is characterized by a balanced heart rate, steady breathing, and a sense of overall well-being. Psychologically, it feels like being present, engaged, and emotionally stable. A regulated person is capable of connecting with others, focusing on tasks, and adapting to changes smoothly.

What is a Dysregulated Nervous System?

Conversely, a dysregulated nervous system is out of balance, often stuck in a state of heightened arousal (fight or flight) or shutdown (freeze). Symptoms of dysregulation include anxiety, irritability, chronic fatigue, and feelings of isolation. When the nervous system is dysregulated, individuals may struggle to connect with others, feel overwhelmed by social interactions, and experience a pervasive sense of disconnection.

Isolation is a key symptom of nervous system dysregulation. When individuals feel overwhelmed or stressed, their instinct may be to withdraw from social interactions to protect themselves from additional stressors. This isolation can perpetuate a cycle of loneliness and disengagement from the workplace community.

Stress and Nervous System Dysregulation

Stress is a primary driver of nervous system dysregulation. According to the American Institute of Stress, 83% of U.S. workers suffer from work-related stress, and it costs American businesses up to $300 billion annually in lost productivity, absenteeism, and turnover. Chronic stress keeps the nervous system in a constant state of high alert, making it difficult for individuals to relax and engage with their colleagues.

A Better First Step: Understanding and Addressing Stress

Before assessing friendships and community at work, it is essential to understand how stressed employees are and why. This can be achieved through employee surveys and simple conversations to gauge stress levels and identify stressors. By acknowledging the root causes of stress, organizations can develop strategies to help employees become more open to human connection, inclusion, and belonging.

Providing Tools for Nervous System Regulation

To support employees in regulating their nervous systems and building stress resilience, organizations can offer various tools and resources, such as:

Workshops: Regular sessions on stress management techniques, mindfulness, and resilience training.
Microlearnings: Short, focused learning modules that employees can easily integrate into their daily routines.
Challenges: Engage employees in wellness challenges that promote physical activity, healthy habits, and stress reduction practices.

Conclusion

Nervous system regulation is crucial for creating a connected and engaged community at work. By understanding and addressing the stress levels of employees, organizations can foster an environment where individuals feel safe, included, and capable of forming meaningful connections. Providing tools and resources for stress resilience can pave the way for a healthier, more connected workplace. It’s time to shift our focus from mere engagement metrics to the foundational elements of well-being that truly support community-building in the workplace.