Our brain has a tendency towards a negative bias and fears anything uncertain or new. The current situation with the Coronavirus is both uncertain and new and naturally, this can lead to an increase in mental health issues including heightened anxiety levels.
For some people, this is made worse by the need to self-isolate and spend extended periods of time alone at home and with limited contact with others It’s easy to feel anxious and overwhelmed with all the conflicting information in our media but how do you support your employee’s mental health when they are working from home in a climate of fear and uncertainty.
If employees are having to work from home, ensure you discuss with them the logistics of how this will happen. If possible, try and replicate how they would work in the office on a normal day
• Make sure they can work remotely – a laptop or computer, an appropriate workstation, access to relevant documents and a clear understanding of what is expected of them
• Help them set up a schedule which will allow them to manage their workload and remain motivated and productive
• Set up regular telephone/Skype meetings so your team can keep in touch with you and each other
• Use technology so your employees feel connected – a WhatsApp group is a good way for your team to keep in touch
• If employees are struggling with their emotional health, ensure you offer appropriate support.
Remote working is beneficial for managing the spread of the Coronavirus but it can be challenging for employees who struggle with their mental health particularly if they are having to spend time alone.
Global Occupational Health Solutions and Think Wellbeing can work with you to support your staff who are having to working remotely. We have a package of services available – Telephone Health Surveillance, informative webinars and written articles, coaching for individual mental health support and clinical advice on the end of the phone.
We can work with organisations and individuals who are struggling to cope during this highly anxious time or who need additional support to manage productivity when working from home – we can address your needs and work to your budget.
Coaching can help individuals address fears and worries, build resilience and coping skills and manage their stress during testing times.
