Returning to work
How can I prepare for returning to work?
Think about any adjustments or support that would be helpful. For example, are there particular aspects of the job that make you feel anxious? You might have some practical suggestions about what can be done about these.Are there any particularly stressful projects / events coming up where support might be helpful or where you can delegate responsibility? Think about how you’d like your progress to be monitored. What goals are realistic? How would you like this to be done and at what frequency? You might prefer meetings or informal chats outside work? If your workplace has a system for this, do you know what it is?
You might find it useful to talk to a neutral / independent person who could act as a mentor?
Colleagues and clients
Think again about what you’d like colleagues / clients to be told. How will you describe what’s been happening? How will you protect yourself against intrusive or tactless questions? Might it be helpful to meet up for a drink / coffee / lunch with a trusted colleague to catch up before you return?When you feel ready to return to work, would you benefit from a gradual phased return to work such as three half days a week, then five half days, then three full days and then a full return to work? Do not contemplate overtime until you feel fully recovered.
