Build Me Up: Strategies for Staying Well Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
Kraus-Anderson’s Build Me Up podcast will continue to deliver uplifting, inspiring and relevant content as it relates to our audience and industry amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This episode, we sat down with Bre Ostrom, Kraus-Anderson Benefits and Wellness Specialist; and Maddy Bourgeois and Dawn Mansergh from HealthPartners’ Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
The Coronavirus pandemic is impacting our world in unprecedented ways, as we work to slow the spread of the virus. Along with widespread school and business closures, sporting and arts events cancelled, there are millions of Americans now working from home, some for the first time. And that in itself can be a major adjustment for people used to being around their co-workers in a more traditional office environment. Along with all the other uncertainties that the pandemic has brought on, feelings of loneliness and isolation are very real outcomes of working from home. The three discussed resources and tools available for employees through EAP, how to stay focused and productive while working from home, and tips to ease anxiety during these unprecedented times.
KA’s Tom Emison created “Formal Friday” to instill a sense of professional pride from his home office.
What is the HealthPartners EAP?
“Things are rapidly changing. What’s true today might not be true tomorrow … Just ask yourself what you need in this moment.”
The HealthPartners EAP provides free health and wellness resources for employees in its provider network. The personal, comprehensive support covers a wide variety of issues, including finances, work-life balance, stress management, legal matters, and much more. If you have HealthPartners, talk to your employer about accessing these valuable resources. Throughout the pandemic, EAP is offering additional resources to keep employees safe and healthy. Informational webinars related to COVID-19 are regularly offered, such as working from home with kids or managers leading virtually. The AWARE program allows people to connect virtually with a counselor, participate in live mindfulness exercises, meditation sessions and more.
Working From Home
“I used to have an hour commute and now I have a 30 second commute. I’m really encouraging people to use that extra time and develop a new routine of exercising, or take some time to themselves.”
Adjusting to working from home can be a challenge. Your routine is changing, you have to find a productive workspace, and it can feel isolating to not be surrounded by your co-workers. But some creative solutions can help employees embrace this new normal. Take time to focus on the things you can control: your mindset, your attitude, your routine. With no time wasted on a commute, you can use that extra time to fit in an at-home workout, take time to read or meditate, or reconnect with friends and family.
With less connection to co-workers, keep in mind that some may live alone and feel especially isolated during this time. Make an effort to reach out to both your teammates and those you may not see around the office as much. A quick phone call or cup of coffee over FaceTime can make a huge different in an employee’s engagement. Who can you reach out to today?
Creating Community From COVID-19
“For folks with kids, they’re learning from us. It’s important for us to provide good mentorship for young folks around us of how we’re handling this uncertainty.”
While this can be a frightening time, this pandemic is showcasing how hardships can bring a community together. Individuals are delivering groceries to their elderly or at-risk neighbors. Restaurants are providing free lunches for children in need while they are out of school. Companies are donating PPE gear for healthcare workers. The world is uniting in a big way as we navigate this unprecedented time together. Thank you to the dedicated teams working in hospitals, grocery stores, airports, manufacturing facilities, construction sites, and other essential industries. We will all get through this together.
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