How to Mentally Prepare to Return to Work After an Absence
Whether you’ve been off for a couple of weeks or several months, an extended absence from work can make returning feel overwhelming.
This is especially likely if you’ve suffered from an injury or illness that has knocked your confidence, or you’re grieving the loss of someone close to you.
While time is the best and only healer, there are things you can do to make the prospect less intimidating and ensure a smooth transition back into your usual work routine.
Follow these simple steps to be better mentally prepared to return to work.
Visit your doctor
Reaffirm your decision that you’re ready to return to work by requesting an examination or discussion with your doctor.
Their professional opinion can give you peace of mind, and an official ‘fit to work’ note will make the reintegration process more straightforward.
Speak to HR
HR employees are trained in all people-related aspects of work, so lean on them for support.
Discussing your worries and needs will alleviate some of the anxiety you may have, and you can ask if there is any flexibility for a phased return, which will feel more manageable than jumping back in at the deep end.
If work incidents triggered your time off, discuss ways to resolve the issues so you’re comfortable and confident returning.
This is especially important if you were injured in the workplace and there’s a danger of PTSD affecting your day-to-day.
In cases where the accident wasn’t your fault, you can seek financial compensation to support you until the environment is safe and you feel ready to return. Your HR team may be able to assist you with this.
Reach out to colleagues
Most workplaces move at a pace, so it’s easy to feel isolated after even a short break.
Before you return officially, reach out to colleagues and request a quick update on work and social changes so you feel up to speed.
You can also use this as an opportunity to update them on your situation and ask for any specific support you need.
Catch up on work
Resting is most important in preparing you to get back to routine, but if you have the energy and are capable, try to catch up on work before day one.
This might include reading reports, viewing project presentations, browsing sales figures, or sorting through emails.
Having basic knowledge of what’s been happening in your absence will help give you the confidence you need to hit the ground running.
Prioritize self-care
Finally, protect against anxiety by prioritizing self-care as much as possible in the run-up to returning to work.
Get plenty of fresh air, do gentle exercise, sleep and eat well, and invest in relaxing activities such as meditation, artistic pursuits, reading, and cooking.
This will mitigate work-related negative thoughts and help you keep calm in stressful situations.
