Mental health: pressure to return to the office could be making employees more anxious

Many employers are eager for staff to return to the office after a year of social distancing, mask wearing, and working from home. However, a recent survey of 4,553 office workers in five different countries, found that every single person reported feeling anxious about resuming in-person work. The top causes of return-to-work stress included being exposed to COVID-19, the loss of work flexibility, the added commute, having to wear a mask while in the office, and a need for childcare. Some managers recognize working from home doesn’t necessarily reduce productivity, and a “work-from-anywhere” approach could drive greater equality, unlock new growth opportunities, and can even lead to greater ethical behavior. Awareness of “insinuation anxiety” is also important when encouraging employees to return to the office, and they should be allowed to make their decisions in private, away from the pressure of their advisor or employer.

You can read my full article in The Conversation.