Information security is often framed in a way that evokes fear. The phrase “It’s not if, but when an incident will happen” is intended to drive urgency —whether from those encouraging improvements or those seeking to exploit weaknesses—but it can also heighten stress and anxiety. While fear may prompt short-term action, it’s not a sustainable or healthy foundation for a resilient security culture.
This pressure is often amplified by the language we use around risk and threat. In the context of Mental Health Week, it’s timely to consider a more balanced, mindful approach—one that acknowledges the pressures staff already face, without adding the constant fear of cyber threats.
Mindfulness: More Than Just a Trend
Mindfulness is sometimes dismissed as mystical or “woo-woo”—lumped in with tarot cards or crystals. But there’s a growing body of scientific research supporting its benefits for mental health, focus, and emotional resilience.
It’s not limited to meditation or relaxation. Mindfulness can be woven into everyday activities, helping individuals stay present, manage stress, and respond thoughtfully—skills that are especially valuable in high-pressure environments.
Reducing Stress and Burnout in Cybersecurity
Burnout is a serious issue in the cybersecurity field. A Gartner survey found that 62% of cybersecurity leaders have experienced burnout, often due to long hours, heavy workloads, and high expectations. Another survey showed that burnout among cybersecurity professionals has reached critical levels, with 68% reporting burnout and 40% experiencing high stress. These conditions not only affect mental and physical health but also increase the risk of security breaches due to mistakes and overlooked alerts.
While these figures focus on dedicated cyber professionals, the reality is that information security touches all of us. At Oxford and beyond, many staff members play a role in keeping systems and data safe, so the stress and responsibility can be felt across the board. We’re all in this together.
Mindfulness offers a practical way to manage that stress. By encouraging small moments of pause, reflection, and emotional awareness, it can help us stay calm, focused, and clear-headed—even when things get busy.
Improving Decision-Making Under Pressure
Stress doesn’t just affect how we feel—it also impacts how we think. Under stress, cognitive functions are impaired, and individuals tend to rely on habitual responses rather than thoughtful decision-making. Chronic stress can even lead to riskier choices due to changes in brain chemistry.
Mindfulness enhances decision-making by promoting a non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. This allows individuals to assess situations calmly and make informed, rational choices—especially critical in high-stakes security environments.
Fostering a Culture of Security and Well-Being
Integrating mindfulness into information security isn’t just about individual well-being—it’s about creating a healthier, more resilient organisational culture. When teams are supported in managing stress, staying focused, and making sound decisions, the entire security posture improves.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the synergy between mindfulness and information security will become increasingly valuable. By shifting the narrative from fear to empowerment, we can build a culture where security awareness and mental well-being go hand in hand.
Why not Try It for Yourself
You don’t need to be a meditation expert to start practising mindfulness. Here are a few simple ways to begin:
- Take a few deep breaths before opening your inbox
- Pause for a moment before responding to a stressful message
- Go for a short walk without your phone
- Try a guided mindfulness app for 5 minutes a day
Small steps can make a big difference—for your well-being and your focus.
Let’s create a workplace where security and mental health go hand in hand.
