As the dust continues to settle from the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of people are still hesitant to step back into the workplace, while others are actively avoiding returning to the workplace completely. However, a new and unexpected hurdle as emerged – lingering anxiety. We delve into the reasons behind this phenomemon and explore how modern-day approaches to a well-respected solution can provide a lifeline for business owners, line managers, and HR professionals at this time.
The Lingering Effects of the Pandemic: A Tug of War with Anxiety
After the tumultuous times of lockdown and social distancing, the transition back to the workplace after remote or hybrid working continues to be met with a whirlwind of emotions. For workers, the prospect of crowded spaces, commuting, and potential exposure to the virus can evoke feelings of apprehension. Even though restrictions have been removed, and many have returned to their pre-COVID normal lives, the virus is still out there, and anyone suffering with anxiety is acutely aware of this. And at the same time, employers are working hard to rebuild their cohesive teams while managing the individual anxieties that they are aware of.
The Deep-Rooted Fears Fuelling the Workplace Hesitation
Uncertainty – The pandemic created a backdrop of uncertainty, making the return to work feel like a leap of faith into the unknown. Workers continue to struggle with uncertainties about the virus, the protection arrangements in place at work, job security, and financial stress.
Emotional and Psychological Toll –The pandemic’s emotional toll on mental heatlh has left lasting imprints. Fear, stress, and grief may persist, making the transition back to the workplace emotionally demanding for many.
Change Fatigue – After months if not a couple of years of adapting to remote working routines, readjusting to the workplace’s structure can create change fatigue and resistance.
Social Anxiety – The prolongued isolation has impacted social skills, leading to apprehension about rejoining social settings.
Fear of Exposure – Personal health anxieties about being exposed to the virus at work can exacerbate the returning-to-work anxiety.
Post-Traumatic Stress – For some, particularly those who experienced COVID-related trauma, the workplace can trigger symptoms of post-traumatic stress.
The Bridge to Emotional Resilience and Healing
Compassionate business owners, line managers and HR professionals have been attempting to support their workers through the usual channels – a referral to the individual’s GP, a variety of heatlh and wellbeing workshops, and where available, accessing help through Employee Assistance Programmes and/or specific charities.
Enter RTH (Rapid Transformation Hypotherapy) – a powerful ally for navigating workplace anxiety and fostering emotional resilience.
Targetted Stress Reduction – RTH can effectively target and reduce stress, allowing workers to face their workplace challenges with greater calm and focus.
Rebuilding Confidence and Self-Esteem – RTH empowers individuals to rebuild their self-confidence and self-esteem, strengthening their belief if their abilities.
Overcoming Fears and Phobias – RTH helps workers confront and conquer specific fears, such as social anxiety or fear of crowded places, paving the way for a smoother transition back into the workplace.
Emotional Healing and Resilience – By addressing lingering emotional distress from the pandemic, RTH facilitates healing and emotional resilience, resetting the unhelpful thoughts and feelings, resulting in a more balanced outlook.
Enhancing Coping Strategies – RTH equips individuals with powerful coping strategies to manage change and uncertainty, not only promoting adaptability in the post-pandemice workplace, but also in other areas of their lives.
Trauma Resolution – for those facing post-traumatic stress, RTH offers a path towards trauma resolution and healing – without having to relive or revisit the event(s).
Unlocking the Potential of a Resilient Workforce
As businesses continue to bounce-back in the post-COVID landscape, understanding and addressing employees’ anxieties is paramount. RTH with its natural and compassionate approach, serves as a transformative tool in unlocking the potential of both a resilient and empowered workforce and their senior management team.
By embracing innovative solutions like RTH, HR professionals and business owners can create a workplace environment that fosters healing, growth, and support. Together, we can achieve the path to recovery and renewal, ensuring a brighter and more resilient future for us all.
To learn more, book a FREE Discovery Call HERE
[Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. If interested in RTH or any of our other solutions, Readers are encouraged to contact us directly to discuss their needs and requirements, and to allow us to conduct a suitability assessment prior to arranging treatment. Alternatively, Readers are advised to contact their own medical or health professional for individual guidance.]