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Life isn’t easy for anyone at the moment. But it’s particularly tough for those who faced COVID-19 lockdown alone or are working from home and miss socialising with colleagues. Those who live alone may feel the impact more than others. If you have employees living alone, you might want to consider these 10 ways to support their mental health and help them avoid feeling lonely.
1. Encourage structure
A daily routine can provide your team with a much-needed sense of normality. This doesn’t have to be work-related. Even simple things, like having set meal times and regular exercise can make a difference – as can more relaxing activities, such as reading, resting or listening to music.
2. Set achievable goals
It’s only natural that your employees will find it hard to concentrate at the minute. So, if they are working from home, don’t expect them to achieve the same level out output you’re used to. Be realistic about what’s achievable and remember that they are likely to have other distractions.
3. Stay connected
Whether your employees are working from home or furloughed, be sure to keep in regular contact by telephone or video call. And don’t just focus on work. Talk to them about their health and wellbeing and remind them of the benefits available on their company health plan.
4. Maintain a sensible diet
It’s easy to graze on snacks when you’re cooped up at home. But a sensible, balanced diet can have a huge impact on the physical and emotional wellbeing of your team. Encouraging them to eat well and share cooking ideas is a great way to keep them healthy and connected while in lockdown.
5. Get creative
Whether it’s using video technology to stay in touch or creating new virtual services for customers, we’re all having to think differently at the moment. Challenging your employees to become a little more creative can be good for business and a great stress-reliever if they’re home alone.
6. Exercise daily
Stepping out of the house may cause anxiety for some, but do encourage your employees to exercise daily while social distancing – by going for a walk, a run or a bike ride. Regular exercise is known to be good for mental health and will also provide them with a welcome change of scene.
7. Avoid negativity
Constantly looking at COVID-19 updates is only going to perpetuate anxiety. So rather than over-analysing the situation, try to be positive and talk to your team about the things they can control – like staying healthy and helping customers, friends and family do the same.
8. Get a good night’s sleep
If your employees are feeling anxious, they may be struggling to sleep, which is only going to add to their stress levels. There are plenty of useful tips online that might help them switch off. Or if they’re really struggling, remind them of the benefits available through your company health plan such as looking into how Employee Assistance Programmes services can support them.
9. Make time for mindfulness
A little mindfulness each day can help your employees relax, unwind and escape the anxieties of COVID-19. There are all kinds of apps available these days. Plus simple things, like eating without the distractions of music or mobile phones, can make a big difference.
10. Reach out for help
If your employees are feeling isolated from remote working, remind them that there is plenty of help, support and advice available – online and over the phone. If you can’t find the words yourself, try pointing them in the direction of Mind, NHS 111, Every Mind Matters or the Samaritans.
Taking these steps will show your employees that you care about their wellbeing and they will appreciate your support. If you have any questions, please complete the form below and we’ll be happy to help.
Disclaimer:
This article has been written in collaboration with Bupa, one of Mercer’s insurance providers. It is for information only and is not specific advice. It is based on our current understanding of the attributed research which may change in the future.
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