Dear MDECOE Community,
After 16 months of working from home, many of us may be experiencing "post-isolation syndrome." It is characterized by nervousness, anxiety, and worry about reintegrating back into the world. Psychologist Susan Albers, in her Psychology Today article entitled “Do You Have ‘Post-Isolation Syndrome’?” states “The impact of social isolation on one's mental health and reintegrating back into society has been previously studied in many groups that have been separated from society for prolonged periods of time such as astronauts, scientists who studied out in the remote wilderness, the elderly, and those who have been incarcerated. What has been found repeatedly is that reintegration after isolation takes time, is sometimes not easy, and requires support.” Dr. Albers offers four tips for supporting reentry back into the world. Here is a brief summary:
- Control-Focus on what you can control versus what you can't.
- Clarify-Before you see friends, family or coworkers be clear with yourself and others about what your boundaries are.
- Calm-Before you leave the house, do some deep breathing exercises or something else that works for you to reduce your anxiety level.
- Choose-Choose your pace. Take your time.
To learn more about "Post Isolation Syndrome" and helpful tips, please see the article at:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/comfort-cravings/202004/do-you-have-post-isolation-syndrome
For a list of many self-care options, please see our COE self-care website for resources for faculty, staff, students, and the community at:
https://www.csun.edu/eisner-education/self-care/articles-information-self-care
As we return to work, let’s do this in a thoughtful and supportive manner with ourselves and each other.
Warmly,
Shari