Maintaining Your Mental Health While Working from Home

| May 11, 2020
Submitted by Brooke Russell

This week, the Student Experience CPD team is sharing mental health best practices.

Establish a routine:

  • Create structure by establishing a daily routine considering boundaries around work, home and play.
  • Set realistic goals – be sensible about what you can accomplish in a workday at home to avoid overextending or over-committing yourself to either home or work projects.
  • Identify what you need to work well and create that structure as your own blueprint for work.
  • It’s okay to have a bad day! Remember to be gentle with yourself as you are adjusting to a new norm. It will take time to establish new routines and habits. Continue to connect with colleagues, friends and family as needed.

Keep up the formal and social flow of work:

  • When possible, use video for all formal discussions, and any discussions where you are checking in on someone’s well-being, as non-verbal communication is key.
  • Consider having break or lunch buddies to encourage you to take your designated breaks and check-in with your team frequently.
  • Be mindful of your screen time and social media use both during and outside of work hours. Try to minimize your time online when possible by taking frequent walks, reading and connecting with friends and family.

Make time for self-care:

  • Get lots of sleep and maintain a proper and well-balanced diet to ensure you are showing up well-rested and energized for a new day.
  • Create a meaningful morning routine. This may include journaling, yoga, meditating, or whatever else you find relaxing.
  • Keep in mind that while we are all in the same boat, we are all fighting a different storm. Be patient with yourself and those around you. If you are struggling with the transition, reach out for additional support.

The Student Experience CPD team is here to help you navigate these uncertain times.

Have questions? Book a virtual appointment with a Relationship Manager on OSCARplus.

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