We are living in strange and unusual times.
Most of us are lucky enough to say that we have never lived through an epidemic before, but a pandemic? That’s something else entirely.
However, here we are, faced with a growing threat that has changed the way we think, act, and of course, how we work.
Coronavirus has changed the world beyond recognition and whilst we’re all very hopeful that things will get back to normal sometime in the hopefully near future, for now, we have to live and work in a slightly different way to before.
Coronavirus is one of the main causes of stress in the workplace right now. How can it not be? We’re either socially distancing from our colleagues, worried about our jobs, furloughed, or working from home when we never wanted to in the first place.
It’s no wonder that stress is one the rise.
It’s important to understand exactly how coronavirus and our current situation has exacerbated the stress problem. By understanding that, you can take comfort in the fact that you’re certainly not alone in feeling the way you do.
So, let’s look at 5 ways coronavirus has caused and exacerbated workplace stress.
We’re Worried About Our Jobs
Unemployment is on the rise, thanks to a damaged economy. It’s no wonder that so many people are worried that their current working month might be their last. Whilst you’re sitting at your office chair, it’s difficult not to wonder what is going to happen, and with prices of everyday life rising as a result of everything that’s going on, worry is normal.
Of course, this is a worry for everyone and whilst it doesn’t take the worry away, share your concerns with your colleagues, and find comfort as a team.
Office Social Distancing is Hard
Office desks are now further apart than before and you might even have perspex office screens between you and your colleagues. All of this creates a different feel to your contemporary office and it might be that you’re just not vibing with it.
There is no real way around this. All you can do is understand that these distancing changes are for your own safety and that hopefully in the near future, we won’t need to use them anymore.
Working From Home is Isolating
Workplace stress can easily be exacerbated when you’re not around your colleagues. If you’re used to collaborating around the modern boardroom tables, you might find it very hard to work from home. Some people love this way of working, but it’s not for everyone.
If you’re currently working from home and you’re struggling with it, try and communicate with your colleagues as much as possible and remember to keep communication channels open during the day with management, etc. By staying in touch, you will feel less isolated.
Furlough is Always a Threat
Many people have found themselves furloughed during the pandemic. Whilst many have since gone back to work, some are still waiting for a re-start date. If you’ve been furloughed, it’s important to try and keep busy and remember that it isn’t a situation that is going to last forever. It’s hard, for sure, but by trying to stay positive, you’ll see yourself through to the other side.
We’re All Worried About Our Health
It’s normal to feel worried about health, for yourself and your family members, whilst you’re at work. However, every office should have social distancing in place and employees should all remember to wash their hands often. By sticking to the rules, you should remain safe, and whilst no-one can ever rule out the chances of a problem, you drastically reduce them by wearing a mask, washing your hands, and keeping your distance.
Workplace stress is a big enough problem without adding a worldwide pandemic to the mix. However, if we all work together, we can battle through this difficult time and look forward to a brighter and healthier future.