Are you nervous about going back to your workplace?

It’s normal and understandable to have some level of anxiety about returning to work as the world continues to grapple with the Coronavirus pandemic. The important thing to remember is that you are not alone, and there are simple tools at your disposal which can help you manage and mitigate those feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.

1.)  Communicate with your leaders. If you have questions about safety protocols or other concerns, let your immediate supervisor know.

2.)  Expect that it will take time to readjust. Change is difficult, so take it easy on yourself as you readjust to being back at work.

3.) Practice responsible and hygienic behaviors. Follow your employer’s recommendations when it comes to health and safety. Keep your work space neat and clean. Don’t share food. Wash your hands frequently, for at least 20 seconds. Do not come to work if you are sick.

4.) Be there for your co-workers. Check in on those who are working alongside you. Reconnecting with co-workers will help you establish a sense of “normal” again.

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Know the Common Signs of Anxiety

Signs of anxiety for both adults and children can manifest themselves in the form of behavioral, physical, emotional and cognitive responses. Keep an eye out for certain changes, which can be warning signs for those who are struggling with stress and anxiety.

Behavioral: 

  • Increase/decrease in activity level
     
  • Increase in alcohol, tobacco or drug use

  • Increased irritability or argumentative behavior
     
  • Difficulty relaxing or sleeping

  • Crying spells 

  • Excessive worry

Physical: 

  • Stomach upset
  • Headaches
  • Changes in appetite
  • Sweating 

Emotional:

  • Fear
  • Depression
  • Guilt
  • Anger
  • Euphoria

Thoughts:

  • Difficulty with memory and focus
  • Confusion
  • Thoughts of dread or doom

Now more than ever your employees need emotional support and resources. We could never have imagined that we would be coming out of global quarantine and entering back into the workforce with a whole new set of challenges for employees and employers. We can help!

Ulliance helps your employees with overwhelming emotions such as anxiety and stress and provides other helpful community resources.  When you partner with Ulliance, services are free for employees & confidential. Counseling sessions can be scheduled by phone to minimize personal contact, access to community resources and 24/7 crisis support.

The Ulliance Life Advisor Employee Assistance Program can help employees and employers come closer to a state of total well-being.

To learn how we can help, give us a call at 866-648-8326.