How to make the most of working from home?

PETALING JAYA: Those who have been forced to work from home should have a schedule that helps them make the best use of their time.

Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris counsellor Dr Fauziah Mohd Sa’ad said if the day was planned well, it could help the individual cope with being cooped up at home while waiting for the movement control order (MCO) to end.

“Those who are forced to work from home should have a daily schedule with a target in mind and work towards that target,” she advised.

“We need to have work-life balance and to achieve that, it is important to plan what you want to do for the day,” she said yesterday.

Fauziah said addressing commitments at the workplace without compromising personal needs would help one achieve worklife balance.

“Having a schedule will help to prevent an individual from falling into depression, especially one associated with ‘cabin fever,’” Fauziah said.

“Cabin fever” is a feeling of irritation caused by long confinement or isolation indoors.

She said one could also indulge in indoor exercising or have breaks in between activities to help one reach his goal for the day.

Prof Dr Amer Siddiq Amer Nordin, the chief coordinator at Universiti Malaya’s Centre for Addiction, said it was important for those with mental afflictions to continue their medical follow-ups with their doctors. “In addition, they should ask for prescriptions to cover a longer period, considering the circumstances.

“Prepare yourself mentally for a longer movement restriction period. Ensure you have a routine, sleep adequately, and find a hobby or partake in self-care, any activity you find helpful and enjoyable.