Returning to Work in the Midst of a Pandemic

It has been several months now since we began living with the uncertainty and unprecedented changes in response to COVID-19. The mental health impacts of this pandemic continue to be widespread. Many people have struggled with adapting to these changes, some of which may have included working from home, loss of employment, home-schooling of children, or physically distancing from friends and family.

Now, as some of the restrictions that were implemented as a result of the pandemic are changing again and we are faced with more businesses reopening, many people are being asked to return to their physical place of work and to adapt to more change and uncertainty of what this might look like.

Many of these employees will experience anxiety and stress related to the possibility of exposure to COVID-19. For some, this return to work may even be the first real contact with the outside world after sheltering in place for several months. For others, it may be the first time that you will be required to leave your family and perhaps you are tasked with arranging safe childcare for your children.

As an employee, how can you deal with this stress and anxiety?

First and foremost, be kind to yourself. Acknowledge the feelings you are experiencing. It is not unexpected that you might be experiencing stress and anxiety. In fact, Morneau Shepell reports that in July 2020, 24 per cent of the population is experiencing more mental stress as compared to the previous month.

You may also find it helpful to stay informed and educate yourself about the precautions you can take to protect yourself and the people around you. Seek out information only from credible sources such as The World Health Organization or Health Canada. In fact, this might be a good opportunity to take a break from social media.

Speak to your employer about the precautions being implemented to protect you and those around you. Some of these precautions, as suggested by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), may include covering your nose and mouth with a face shield, practicing physical distancing as much as possible and washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.

The Canadian Mental Health Association has suggested several tips that can be helpful for managing mental health during COVID-19. Practicing self-care is vital to maintaining your mental health. Getting a proper amount of sleep and exercise, as well as eating healthy are only a few examples of actions we can take to look after our mental and emotional health.

And if you do find that stress and anxiety are interfering with your ability to manage your day to day tasks, or if you are experiencing significant distress, don’t be afraid to reach out for support from a health care professional or a recognized community resource.

As an employer, how can I support my employees who are anxious about returning to work?

First, be understanding. It is reasonable for your employees to feel stress and anxiety about returning to the workplace. Let them know you understand their fears and that you are available if they need to talk. 

Share with your employee the plans you have made for their safe return. If possible, allow them to be a part of this discussion and get their input on what will help to make them feel safe. If your employee has been working from home during this time, ask them what it is that makes them feel safe there and work together to perhaps find a way to replicate that.

Ensure that your employees are familiar with any mental health resources that you have available through any workplace Employee Assistance Plans.

You can also reach out directly to C.M.H.A. to discuss various trainings and workshops that may be tailored to meet your employee needs.