Returning to Work

As we head into August, now is the time that many people are seeing a reappearance of ‘normality’ with many offices and companies starting to return to the workplace.

It’s been a long few months, and while March seems like a long time ago now, we’re all still coming to terms with new changes to our work environment and the affects this is having on us all. Many of us are feeling uncertain about what the future holds, and it’s important for our wellbeing that we acknowledge this.

Workplaces will have had to have put measures in place so we can all work as safely as possible and whilst seeing our colleagues will be a familiar feeling, the atmosphere may have changed. Many of us will have to take steps to ensure our safety, and this may bring with it feelings of discomfort and unease.

While we are dealing with our own feelings, it’s also really important to talk to your colleagues and clients to understand the impact coronavirus may have had on them. They may have been unwell, bereaved or have felt isolated and overwhelmed during this time and be apprehensive about being back in the office.

Think about your job and your situation. Are there any changes you need to make so that you can do your job well? Do you understand the provisions that have been put in place to create a safe working environment?

It’s likely that the way we return to a ‘normal’ will change over the coming weeks and constant adjustment will happen. The best thing you can do is keep checking in with yourself and those around you. Is there anything that’s working really well with the approach you are taking or are there areas that you need to make improvements?

Take things one day and then one week at a time. If you need any further assistance, we can recommend heading over to mentalhealthatwork.org.uk