The mental health of employees is worsening as we all return to work. Mental Health Awareness Week, which just ended on May 13th, has brought attention to this issue. People are hesitant to go back due to safety concerns or simply because we’ve gotten used to remote work and don’t want the commute and exposure it may bring.
Let’s face it, It’s been a long time since most of us went back to work on a regular basis. It can be difficult for some people to get used to the idea of having to perform their daily routines the same way that they were used to. As much as we are excited to get back, we are nervous about how things will be different and if our mental health will stay in check.
There are many things you can do in order mentally prepare yourself when you get back into the office: Below are tips that can help us adjust as you get back into the swing of things!
1. Identifying as being a part of a larger community helps mentally Keep in mind that we are not alone.
With the rise of remote work, what was once “office culture” has now become “work culture”. It can be hard to go back and feel like we don’t belong with our co-workers anymore. We are part of a bigger group than just our office mates!
2 Admit there is anxiety.
We were all affected. If we admit that we’re feeling anxious, then others will understand where you are coming from and help support you through those feelings.
3 ) Take it slowly.
We don’t feel like we need to jump back in head first. It’s okay if we start slow and gradually increase our workload as time goes on. Give ourselves the opportunity to get used to being at work again before getting too overwhelmed by what is.
4. Reconnect with our co-workers–try to ease back into work by doing things that are socially fulfilling.
Go out for lunch or dinner, have coffee breaks more often so we can catch up on what’s been happening in their lives at the office.
5. Prioritize Safety above everything else. Take safety into our own hands. Even if it is no longer a strict policy, keep wearing our masks, socially distance, avoid cramped spaces and have hand sanitizer at your desk to protect ourselves at all times.
Employers are starting to take notice of the mental health toll that comes with returning to work. The biggest worry people have is safety especially in a world where many workplaces are not as secure or safe as they should be. So what can we do when we get back into the office? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are some general guidelines for mentally preparing yourself before you go back so that our return will hopefully be easier on both our brain and our productivity at work.
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