Chicago Tribune (Sunday)

Maintainin­g work-life balance

- — Irma Mundungu, Chicago

Since the beginning of the pandemic, companies have progressiv­ely embraced allowing their employees to work from home to limit the spread of the virus. Working remotely seemed to be really appealing to both sides. But many did not foresee the toll this new lifestyle would take on their mental health.

When our bedrooms or living rooms become our office space, it gets very difficult to balance family and work life, thus creating more stress in our day-to-day lives. Boundaries become easy to cross, with many working longer hours and others barely working because they lack motivation.

Remote working has brought a new level of social isolation that many had not experience­d before, triggering feelings of depression and overall poor mental health.

According to a Twingate study, 40% of employees have experience­d mental exhaustion from video calls. Employees have attended more meetings working remotely than working at the office.

Self-care is important for optimal mental health; employees working from home should establish clear boundaries between work life and home life as if they were going to the office. It is recommende­d to take advantage of the spring weather and go for a walk on break time.

One of the most important things a person can do for his or her mental health is getting enough sleep; lack of sleep can worsen depression and anxiety.

And remember to do something kind for yourself. Your mental health will thank you for it.

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