Looking after mental health & wellbeing working at home
The COVID-19 pandemic is challenging us on many levels, but the need to stay away from others – and in some cases to have to stay at home – is one of the hardest things to deal with, as we are social creatures who thrive on social connection.
Not having sufficient social connection can seriously affect our mental health and wellbeing, so it’s vital to prioritise staying connected during this time. It’s also important to keep to healthy routines and prioritise hobbies, focus on eating well, get some exercise and good-quality sleep.
The current need to self-distance or self-isolate may heighten feelings of loneliness, fear, stress, anxiety and depression.
Here are some ideas to help you and your employees cope during this time:
Stay connected with friends, family and colleagues
Touch base with someone every day. Use your phone, social media and apps such as Skype, FaceTime, Zoom and WhatsApp to chat to family, colleagues and friends. It's good to use video as we communicate best when we can see each other’s body language and facial expressions.
Your friends and colleagues are all in the same boat as you, so reach out and call one another for a quick chat. . Remember to also check-in a few times a week with any of your employees who are working from home.
Do things you enjoy
Now's the time to do it! Read that pile of books and watch those TV shows you missed. If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, make the most of it. Try a new hobby that you can do at home or online? Painting and listening to music are both great ways of relaxing and practising mindfulness. If you enjoy DYI, now’s a good time to knuckle down and get jobs done.
Stay healthy
Focus on eating well and getting enough exercise and a good night's sleep. Take the time to cook from fresh and try out all those recipes you've been filing away.
Any kind of physical movement is a great way of releasing stress – go for a walk or run; do some stretching, yoga or crank some uplifting music and dance around the house. Consider creating a pre-sleep routine by turning off news and screens at least an hour before going to bed. If you wake during the night and find you can’t sleep, try out a meditation from a ‘Sleep’ program/App.
Dodge the panic
Try to limit your media and online exposure. Seek advice from credible sources only and don’t consume news all day long.
If you're feeling anxious, breathe. Slow your breathing rate and the sensations of anxiety will start to subside. To do this: Stop what you’re doing, take three long, slow deep breaths. Try a 4-2-6 rhythm – e.g. breathe for 4 counts, hold your breath for 2 counts, and breathe out for 6 counts. Your out-breath must be slightly longer than your in-breath.
Contribute
Contributing to the wellbeing of others helps shift our attention from ourselves onto what we can do for them.
Consider how you might help others at this difficult time. For example, you could support a local business or charity that you value and who could do with your help at the moment.
Reach out
if you are finding that you are struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. If you need assistance please visit the dedicated Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service. Trained mental health professionals are available to talk to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, via phone. Alternatively please contact your HRplus consultant.
How are your employees coping?
Are you supporting them sufficiently so that they remain engaged in their work and your company (now and in the future)?
Are they able to continue doing their best work?
Are they staying physically and mentally well and safe?
What barriers are impacting their productivity?
Is there anything you and your managers should be doing better?
Do you know the answers to these questions? And would your employees agree with your answers?
Contact us to find out how our customised Employee Wellbeing Survey will help you know how everyone is doing.