Here are our top tips to stay mentally well working from home
As more companies embrace remote and hybrid work, it’s important to remember that while working from home has many benefits, such as increased flexibility and no commute, it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is maintaining good mental health in an environment that can feel closed off, lonely, or distracting.
Here are some common issues that come with working from home, and how to responsively support your mental health.
Common mental health problems when working from home
A common problem people had whilst adjusting to working from home during COVID-19 lockdowns is the lack of separation between work and personal life. It can be hard to switch off from work mode when your home is also your office, which can easily lead to feelings of burnout and can have a negative impact on your overall mental health.
Another difficulty is the lack of social interaction. Working from home can be isolating, and it can be hard to feel connected to colleagues when you’re not seeing them face-to-face. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and can also impact mental health.
Additionally, distractions such as household chores or family members can make it difficult to focus on work tasks, leading to feelings of frustration and stress. It can be challenging to focus on work when it’s integrated into your personal life and space, especially if your household environment is busy.
How to set boundaries between work and home
When working from home, it’s easy to blur the lines between work and personal life. However, it’s important to set clear boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain good mental health.
Here are some tips to help you set boundaries:
- Create a designated workspace: Set up a designated workspace that’s separate from your personal space. This can help you mentally separate work from home. Try to pack away work items each night, especially if it’s a shared space, to allow separation and if having to work from a bedroom try and find a way to cover it away with a screen or something similar to keep it out of sight
- Stick to a schedule: Create a schedule that includes dedicated work hours and personal time. Stick to this schedule as much as possible to help maintain a healthy work-life balance. This will also help you be more productive.
- Communicate with your colleagues: Make sure your colleagues know your work schedule and when you’re available. This can help prevent them from contacting you outside of work hours. And if you have finished work resist the temptation to check those emails, or take that call after you have finished for the day.
- Take breaks: Taking breaks throughout the day can help prevent burnout and improve productivity. Try taking a short walk, doing some stretches, or just taking a few deep breaths.
- Stay active: Regular exercise is important for both physical and mental health. Make sure you’re getting enough exercise throughout the week, whether it’s through a workout class, yoga, or just going for a walk.
- Stay connected: Working from home can be isolating, so it’s important to stay connected with friends and family. Make time to chat with loved ones, even if it’s just a quick phone call or video chat.
Think you need help?
At TrueHR, we understand the importance of maintaining good mental health while working from home. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help support your business advocate for mental health, especially whilst working from home.
