Return to Campus
As we return to campus for work or study, you may experience feelings of anxiety. There is nothing wrong with feeling anxious about changes and uncertain times, and you are not alone in these feelings. A range of anxiety-related emotions and responses could include:
- Fear, worry or anxiety
- Feelings of stress or being overwhelmed
- Feelings of sadness or tearfulness
- Poor concentration, insomnia or other sleep problems
- Stomach issues, heart palpitations and other physical symptoms
- Tiredness, irritability, or low energy
- Withdrawing from colleagues or other situations involving contact with others
- Fear of public spaces and public transit
It is important that as we navigate a return to campus, employees and students become familiar with all available resources and supports.
LINKS TO McMASTER SITES AROUND RETURNING TO CAMPUS
RETURNING TO IN-PERSON
Visit the Resources tab for more articles on the topic of returning to campus / work.
Returning to Work Soon? Here Are Some Ways to Make the Process Easier Link to article
Cleveland Clinic
Going back to the work environment Read the article
Mental Health Foundation (UK)
Return to a Shared Workspace Toolkit: A psychological toolkit for transitioning to a new normal Read the toolkit
CMHA Ontario
Information Box Group
if you have a mental or physical health issue or disability which may require academic or workplace accommodations, consider reaching out to Human Resources Services, or Student Accessibility Services.
Returning to Campus Mental Health Resources
Coping Strategies for Faculty/staff/students
General Tips for faculty/staff

Returning to A Shared Workspace: a psychological toolkit for transitioning to a new normal Learn More
Canadian Mental Health Association (Ontario)

Navigating the New Normal: Tips and Strategies for Workplace Mental Health During and After COVID-19 Learn More
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)

Navigating the New Normal: A COVID-19 Supplement to CAMH’s Mental Health Playbook for Business Leaders Learn More
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
Anxiety in Return to Work for faculty/staff

How to Manage Return Anxiety as the Lockdown Lifts Learn More
Mental Health Commission of Canada
For employers/Leaders on anxiety

Help Your Employees Who Are Anxious About Returning to the Office Learn More
Harvard Business Review