1Life Healthcare : How To Prevent Outside Stress From Interfering With Workplace Wellness

Create safe spaces for people to authentically show up

For many, recent events have brought up real fears that transcend personal and professional borders. Common questions among these patients are: how do I know that I'm protected at work? When I'm feeling afraid or angry, how do I show up? What face do I need to put forward? Can I express myself to coworkers?

Another common feeling among many patients is guilt. These patients are feeling like they want to help, but don't know where to start. They are looking for reasonable or tactical things they can do in a setting that may feel charged.

Facilitate opportunities for connection and conversation

Feelings of fear or anger can also lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation. Employers can help their teams maintain a healthy work environment and connections with their colleagues by creating safe places for discussion and processing. These events can be held virtually, allowing people to meet others where they are, and have conversations from the comfort of their couches.

Educate yourself and your team

Spend time learning about the challenges your team may be facing and discuss them openly. Have courageous conversations to discuss team stressors. Discuss the impact outside events may be having on the team and their mood. Having a sense of control helps us to mitigate any challenges the team, and yourself as the leader, may be facing. Acknowledge that we don't have all of the answers, but we do have the opportunity to support one another.

If your mental health has been affected by the pandemic, you're not alone. Your primary care provider is a great place to start in order to create a plan to address your unique needs. Learn more about One Medical's mental health offerings for individuals and employers.