This week, New York's Governor Cuomo announced that the state is officially lifting all remaining COVID-19 restrictions and that residents can "return to life as we know it." For many, this was long-awaited news. For others, it was more jarring. After all, over 600,000 lives have been lost in the U.S. alone due to the COVID-19 pandemic and most of our children have not been vaccinated.
Mothers, in particular, have been hugely affected by this pandemic, which has wreaked havoc on their collective mental health. Families have adapted over and over to the ever-changing requirements of the CDC, their local and state governments, and their school districts.
So if you're now planning on going back to work after COVID-19, it's normal that there would be some post-pandemic anxiety. Read on for five tips to help you feel more prepared.
The CDC Guidelines for Returning to Work
How to Deal with Anxiety at Work
COVID-19 has impacted millions in so many ways, but one major consequence has been the toll on society's collective mental health. For those already suffering from anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, or other similar mental health issues, the pandemic only magnified their struggles.
If you are suffering from anxiety around returning to work, know you are not alone.
"As a working mom who suffers from anxiety and obsessive compuslive disorder, the COVID-19 pandemic has been extremely triggering for me to navigate," Laura M. told Mom.com. "When my office notified us that they'd like us to return to work, I felt a wave of panic."
"To ease my anxiety, I had to build out a plan of action," Laura continued. "I spoke with my partner first about how we would care for our daughter during the day. Then I set up an appointment with my psychiatrist, and finally I had a candid conversation with my supervisor. Luckily for me, my supervisor was very accomodating and made several adjustments that helped minimize my anxiety about returning to work."
Ease anxiety by planning ahead
Kate Sweeny, a professor of psychology, says that the best way to tackle mild to moderate anxiety about returning to work is to focus on what you can control. According to the University of California, Sweeny said that by planning ahead, you "gain a sense of control over the uncertain future." By planning your work outfits, using a daily planner, or meal planning, you help control some aspect of the unknown.
Focus on the positives
What are you looking forward to about being in the office? Have you missed your work-wife? Did you used to love office gossip or grabbing a cup of coffee with a co-worker? Remind yourself of all the things you once enjoyed instead of focusing on all the things you fear.
Pour yourself into new challenges
Without overworking yourself or risking the all-important work-life balance, Sweeny recommends finding "challenging, engaging activities to absorb your attention — a process called 'flow' — and help pass the time pleasantly while you wait for the 'old normal' to return."
Speak to your doctor
Lastly, if your anxiety is starting to impact your daily life, speak to your physician about your options for managing it.
