The Role of Psychology in the Workplace During Pandemic

The current situation caused by Covid 19 has changed our perception of everyday life; and brought about unparalleled levels of stress. In a situation like this, where the world is confronting a pandemic, people find themselves being more exposed to stress; being not sure what the future may hold. This stress concerns our everyday life: the “new Covid-19 reality”. We fear for our loved ones; and we are more than concerned about one of the main aspects of our life, and that is our career. As we can all observe, Covid-19 has had a major impact on the labor market; and I can only guess that most of us have asked ourselves if how the workplace during pandemic will be affected.

Workplace during Pandemic: dealing with stress

The problem of stress and its effects has been analyzed by many researchers and psychologists. It is also a popular topic for work trainings – the various ways of dealing with stress. Many of us may not have even noticed how much this situation has affected our daily behavior, sense of security and the impact on our health.

The concept of stress in the world of psychology is one of the most popular fields of research; and it is also a commonly discussed issue in organizational psychology related to the workplace, work-life balance, and the managing of people. The first person who introduced the concept of stress was H. Selye, according to whom, stress is “the body’s nonspecific reaction to any demand made” , which he called GAS – General Adaptation Syndrome or biological stress syndrome. After H.Selye, many psychologists focused on stress in their research, and today it is one of the best moments to draw on their knowledge. According to WHO (World Health Organization), “Fear, worry, and stress are normal responses to perceived or real threats, and at times when we are faced with uncertainty or the unknown. So it is normal and understandable that people are experiencing fear in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

So what we can notice in our behaviour, and how should we react?

We can divide symptoms of stress into three groups:

– physiological indicators like: muscle tension, accelerated pulse, difficulties with breathing, colds and other infections;
– psychological indicators: mood changes, anxiety, irritability exhaustion, lack of enthusiasm, feeling helpless, loss of confidence;
– behavioral indicators: sleep disturbance (insomnia or increased drowsiness), loss of appetite, feeling of constant hunger, isolation.

Nowadays, it is almost impossible to avoid stress; but according to psychologist Richard Lazarus, there are two basic modes for coping with stress: solving the problem, or controlling one’s emotions. We can endeavor to achieve a lighter level of stress by adapting to the new reality, or by seeing some advantages to the new situation in our life, or in the workplace during pandemic.

We may also encourage ourselves to overcome negative feelings. Also, it is crucial to remember that sometimes the best option for our mental health; and the only way of coping with some emotions is to embrace professional psychological or psychiatric help. It is completely natural that we are coping with a lot of emotions; emotions that are not always positive. It’s important to know that all feelings matter, and it’s okay to ask for help. Many medical centers are working in a new way, with tele-help offering psychological counselling. In addition, there are many support lines for people experiencing mental crises, run by various state institutions and NGOs.

Lowering the barriers

First of all, try to take a Covid break. Continuously focusing on this problem may overwhelm us; or intensify our anxiety. Also, remember to check information with reliable sources like official sites or WHO.

Secondly, try to make time for yourself, whether it’s physical activity, meditation, or even short walks – something that will make you feel energized and oxygenated. Such activities will also help you to clear your mind. There are a couple of relaxing techniques you can make recourse to, for example: breathing exercises or Jacobson training, which relies on stretching and relaxing specific muscle groups.

Thirdly, what’s important not only while coping with stress; but generally when it comes to taking care of your health, is to remember about a balanced diet and to ensure that you are getting the right amount of sleep. Sleep affects both our physical and mental wellbeing, our immune system, cell regeneration and the entire working of the nervous system.

Fourthly, make every effort to focus on family, friends and work colleagues. As we have suggested in prior articles, it is a good idea to set up a virtual meeting with friends and co-workers. Being in touch with others represents a support in difficult times, and coping with loneliness. Everyone feels a different degree of stress levels; different situations may be difficult for us. But what’s important is to feel the support of others, and to be aware of our feelings. In fact, it may not be you who needs the support. But perhaps you will have a chance to help someone to find their way through this situation?

And what can we do from the perspective of the employer?

Always, the best rule when conducting business is transparency and honest communication. During this pandemic, we all have to be aware that we are dealing with a difficult situation; and sometimes we must make difficult decisions, which may involve both employer and employees. Transparency helps all concerned to deal with the new realities, and to be aware of situations that are often fluid. Transparency also helps us to tame our feelings and fears related to the workplace during pandemic.

When discussing the question of stress associated with the pandemic, we cannot forget about some of the positive aspects that have arisen from this situation. Where previously our lives were consumed with the pursuit of obligations, now we have a chance to spend extra time at home with our loved ones. It is also a time for the pursuit of hobbies, and perhaps developing some new skills or finding new passions? It is a good occasion to find a new routine, one that will help us maintain a work-life balance.