In extreme cases of loneliness or feelings of desperation, you should reach out to our Employee Assistance Program by calling 1-800-367-7474, or visit www.mylifematters.com and enter the company password “stanislaus.”

There are some brilliant things you can do to help connect with yourself and others.

Make sure you stay in regular contact with your colleagues. Consider video-conferencing and picking up the phone rather than emailing. Working from home often means you miss out on the office news. Why not set up a short, virtual coffee meeting with your colleagues so you keep up with what’s going on?

It is easy to worry about what others think of you. Some people worry whether their manager is happy with their work or worried they are not working hard enough. If you start to feel concerned, pick up the phone and speak with your manager. They are there to help you — after all, the more productive you are, the more productive they are!

Your mental well-being can be improved with exercise. If you can, go for a walk. If you are self-isolating and have a garden, take a few minutes to stretch and exercise outside. If not, you can still get a light workout indoors.

If you step outside on a sunny day, you will get a healthy boost of vitamin D. Use your garden, balcony or even simply open a window!

Even in times of self-isolation we can still keep in touch with our friends and family. Pick up the phone and use social media. Why not reacquaint yourself with those you have lost touch with?

Loneliness and feelings of isolation are completely normal. Sometimes, though, these feelings can overwhelm us. Remember there are things you can do and organizations who can help.

Your health and well-being is the most important thing to us. This homeworking period is temporary and difficult for all of us. Stan State administration is here to support you through this challenging period.

Updated: December 20, 2022