The RDR board of directors recently reflected on how Canadians are grappling with the issue of managing their mental health during the pandemic. It’s challenging for people to work from home while coping with a host of related issues like increased screen time, less physical activity and the loss of good old human companionship.

Since the pandemic shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon, how are we to motivate our staff and boost morale so that they perform at their optimal capacities? How can we support them in their journey towards better mental health which may impact their work?

We have seen that many business operations have now shifted wholly to a virtual space. Employees have been asked to continue working from home for the foreseeable future.

Tips for boosting mental health while working virtually

Simple strategies can help you to preserve a level of mental wellbeing.

• Clear communication – Clear communication is certainly a must between colleagues, where each party has clear guidelines about the work expected, the problems arising and the solutions for the problems.
• Dedicated work space – It seems like a no-brainer to make sure you have a dedicated workspace. Physically dividing your work space from your relaxing space is key to mental health.
• Take ‘time-outs’ during work time – Schedule a few minutes of down time at intervals during the work day. Have a cup of coffee or take a walk around the block. These breaks are a great way to bring a sense of ‘normality’ to our new reality.

COVID-19 has upended everything we knew as ‘usual’ and has impacted mental health in a big way. As Canadians continue their stellar work, we hope they prioritize their mental health by adopting strategies to combat the stresses of pandemic work life.

Moushumi Chakrabarty is a member of the board of directors at Regional Diversity Roundtable.