The recent months have caused drastic changes among the majority of citizens. With COVID19 running rampant throughout our world, it leaves many to wonder when the quarantine will end, and many more wondering when they can return to their normal work schedules.
A survey was conducted by The University of Keio, in Tokyo, Japan, as well as many other contributing institutions looking into the deterioration of workers who are teleworking from home while the viral conditions simmer down in their communities. The survey conducted was done in late March, looking at over 8,000 workers ranging in ages from early twenties to mid sixties. As a result, 35 percent said that their mental health has deteriorated, while about 50 percent said there was no change, and roughly 14 percent saying that their mental health actually improved.
Reasons stated from those whose mental health has gotten worse since moving to online work and over the phone communication, they have said that it is actually conflicting with their personal lives, they haven’t been able to work out enough, and that they just have difficulty communicating with coworkers in this manner.
Uncertain times will begin to affect all of us. Workers from home have had a blurred vision when trying to separate work from pleasure. Some will find that they are extending their work hours because they are in the place where they usually associate with being off work, so it will add on to the already heavy workload that they are facing with moving all of their work online.
Having a work environment that is away from home has never been more vital, but with current events, it is just not possible, without the risk of causing further harm to yourself or others.
Those who work away from home face a different kind of stress. They worry that they will interact with someone who has come into contact with the coronavirus, and in turn, carry it home with them to their families. It is important to note who you come into contact and have a good idea of who they are interacting with during their off time.
For first responders, hospital workers, and military and law enforcement, we cannot thank you enough for what you are doing for our countries and our communities. The saying, “selfless service” cannot be said enough, and is an understatement in relationship to how much you have done.
Thank you, from the bottom of all our hearts. You are true, real heroes.
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