As COVID-19 turns the world on its head, it’s fair to say uncertainty, trepidation and concern are feelings many of us are grappling with right now. The economic fallout and job security are certainly front of mind for most people. But how many of us have stopped to think about the impact a prolonged period of isolation could have on our mental health, and actions we can take to support ourselves in this area?
Many Project Managers we engage with are facing a situation they have not encountered before. For those working on the front-end of projects in mining, energy and infrastructure, the challenges revolve around working from home with no face-to-face access to their team. Not to mention the juggle of balancing working from home while also homeschooling children!
For those engaged on projects in the construction phase, many Project Managers are facing prolonged periods on site. This is driven by the need to protect workforces and indigenous communities in remote locations where projects continue to operate. Many employers are requiring staff to commit to a minimum of three months on site with no option to return home during this period. While job security is the upside, there are clear challenges around isolation and the pressure and guilt of being away from family at such a difficult time that come with this scenario.
Burnout and mental health issues arising from feeling isolated and uncertain are real challenges on the horizon for Project Managers over the coming months. That’s why I believe now is the perfect time to start a conversation around tools and techniques to help elevate the pressure you may be feeling starting to build. Prevention is better than cure, as the saying goes!
Here are 8 practical tips you can use each day to help relieve the pressure and maintain a positive mindset as we all navigate this next stage.
- Exercise: The endorphins released by your body when you exercise are natural mood boosters. Having an exercise routine in place will help keep your mind and body strong and also bring a sense of control and normalcy back into your life.
- Utilise technology: As humans we crave contact and interaction. While social distancing is making it hard to connect face-to-face, there is a myriad of technology platforms offering the next best thing. Switch out a phone call for a video chat the next time you need to talk with a colleague or team member. Connecting visually will help decrease feelings of isolation.
- Take breaks outside: Try taking your regular coffee break out in the sunshine. The quick change of scenery will help refresh your mind and make it easier to focus on what needs to be done when you return to your desk.
- Write down how you’re feeling: If you are struggling to process your emotions, try writing down how you feel. Just articulating your thoughts and getting them out of your head can be incredibly useful. Many people find it’s easier to write their feelings down than verbalise them. Give it a try.
- Plan a future event: This could be a party, your first post-isolation holiday or a dinner with family and friends. The event itself doesn’t matter. The important point is focusing on a positive event and having something to look forward to that you know you will enjoy.
- Remind yourself this will pass: I know it may not seem like it right now, but this crazy and uncertain period will pass. Eventually, it will just be a small moment in the timeline of your life. This little bit of perspective can help make these long, slow days a little easier.
- Talk to someone: We hear this message so often with mental health – reach out, ask for help, put your hand up if you are struggling. This is now more important than ever with so many people struggling under the weight of the current environment. Don’t suffer in silence. Make sure you reach out and talk to someone. You will be surprised how many people share your thoughts, concerns and emotions. A problem shared is a problem halved
- Look for gratitude: As bad as things are in the world right now, we all have something to be grateful for. It may be your health, your family, your job, or the fact you have more than enough toilet paper! Whatever it is just take a moment to stop and appreciate it. You don’t have to look far to find someone in a worse position than yourself. Being grateful and reaching out to help others where you can is one of the easiest ways to feel some happiness inside.
Regardless of your situation, you are bound to be navigating a range of emotions and challenges right now. Our team at Concentis are here to support in any way we can. Please don’t be afraid to reach out. Even if it’s just a conversation to touch base and let us know how you are. We are all in this together.
