How to handle loneliness when working from home

Virgin Radio

19 May 2022, 14:11

Working from home has been an unexpected lifestyle change for many people due to the pandemic.

The commute has been exchanged for working from the kitchen table (or bed, or desk), and many people have found they're missing the water-cooler chat.

It's no surprise then that a number of people have reported an increase in feelings of loneliness throughout the pandemic.

Not socialising with colleagues on a lunchbreak can have an impact on wellbeing.

A survey found that more than a third of workers aged 18 to 34 have found it harder to make friends and maintain relationships with colleagues since working from home.

A whopping 81% of those surveyed said they have worried about loneliness.

Amanda Augustine is a careers expert for TopCV.

She says: "When left unchecked, feelings of isolation can wreak havoc on both your physical and mental health."

"Whether you work remotely all the time or as part of a hybrid working arrangement, it’s important that you find practical ways to address these feelings of loneliness and to seek help if they’re negatively impacting your mental health."

Here are some top tips to tackle loneliness when working from home.

Set up a virtual coffee

A virtual lunch or coffee date might not be the same as the real deal in person, but catching up with a colleague can lift your spirits.

Amanda's recommendation is to ask a colleague you spend the least amount of time with if they'd like to join you for a Zoom coffee. 

She says: ‘There’s no substitute for spending face-to-face time with others, but these informal virtual get-togethers can make work feel a little less isolating.’

"It might also be a good idea to hop back on the Zoom socials, even if you’ve become fed up with them.

"Look for groups at work to join – or form – to increase your social interactions with others at your company."

Go for a walk

It can be easy to find yourself staring at a screen all day, with your laptop while working and then your phone on your lunch, scrolling through socials.

Getting out and about can really help.

"A little sunshine and fresh air can do wonders for your mental wellbeing,’ says Amanda.

"Take advantage of your working arrangement to get outside during the daytime.’

Even better, combine a lunchtime walk with a phone call with a friend.

Work in a cafe or library

Now that restrictions have lifted, remote working doesn't have to see you working from home.

You could spend one day a week working somewhere with other people.

Amanda says: "It could be a coffee shop, your local library, a co-working space, or even the home of a friend who’s also working remotely,’

"Just having others around – even if you’re not working with them – will help you feel less lonely throughout the day."

Make plans after work

Having something to look forward to after work can make the day go quicker.

It can be tempting to save socialising for the weekend.

"If you’re not getting enough socialisation through your current work arrangement, start making plans with your friends or family throughout the week,’ says Amanda. 

"Whether it’s dinner or drinks out with friends, a movie night in, or a music concert, find opportunities to get together with your inner circle and feel more connected to your community."

Speak to your company

If loneliness is hitting you hard, it's worth making sure your company is aware of how you're feeling, to see if they can help.

"Numerous companies increased their benefits during the pandemic to help employees cope with the added stress and take care of their mental wellbeing,’ says Amanda.

"Take another look at your employee handbook or contact HR to find out if any programs or stipends are in place to help you manage your mental health.’

Your employer may be able to assist, or connect you with other employees who may be feeling the same.