Return To Work: Protecting Your Mental Health

For some of us, working from home has been an absolute dream, spending our days gardening, baking, creating. For others, it has been a combination of working, homeschooling, cleaning, cooking, working out, and maintaining sanity as best as possible. Regardless of which of those groups you fall into, going back to work feels like a scary and daunting reality. Uncertainty seems to be the word of the year with COVID-19, and going back to work is raising many questions. How many more cases will there be? Will I get sick? Is my office safe? What changes have happened to the workplace? How will I adjust? It is completely natural and normal to have these thoughts!

For many, the choice to return it work isn’t a choice at all, as countries rush to open borders and stimulate economies. Specific sectors are in full operation already. A phased approach back to work is preferred, but many do not have that choice. So how can you help yourself adjust or give advice to a colleague who is struggling?

BE KIND TO YOUR COLLEAGUES.

Lockdown has changed us from the way we work to the way we view life. Approach your colleagues with kindness and empathy first, and remember to communicate clearly. Be open, honest, and professional with management and colleagues.

BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS FEARS.

A global pandemic is a once in a lifetime event, and it is a real fear for people. Do not mock, belittle, or minimize other’s feelings towards COVID-19. If a colleague is taking their precautions more seriously than you are, support them and maybe take a look at your precautions.

BE HYGIENIC.

Wash your hands! Wear your mask! Use hand sanitizer! Wear gloves where appropriate! Do not give colleagues reason to be afraid of your precautions. By taking this seriously, you prove that you are a good employee and that you care about the well-being of yourself, your community, and your company.

BE PATIENT WITH COMPANY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES.

This is all brand new, so have some patience! People are working incredibly hard with moving timelines to keep us safe. Communicate legitimate concerns in a constructive manner, and support those who are implementing new policies and procedures.

STAY INFORMED.

Get your news from a reputable news source, and stay informed. Get updates from your local government and your company, and follow those updates. If the COVID-19 situation gives you anxiety, then avoid workplace chatter on the topic. Do not get your information from memes or office gossip!

STAY HEALTHY + BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM.

Continue to stay healthy. Get enough movement, drink water, eat balanced meals, support your mental health, and support your immune system. There are several immune system supports available. Check with your local pharmacy and choose an option that will work for you. You can also promote your immune system through diet.  

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF WELLNESS PROGRAMS, EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS, AND HUMAN RESOURCE OFFERINGS.

Wellness programs all over the world have jumped on this global pandemic offering many free resources. Zest Wellness alone has a full offering of virtual fitness classes, webinars, podcasts, blogs, meditation groups, and more. Utilizing free resources that your company provides is a huge help. If you aren’t sure what your company offers, reach out to your Human Resources department. You may be surprised by the answer!