Returning to work after a medical leave can feel intimidating. Several questions may be running through your mind...Am I ready? What if my headaches get worse again? What if I make mistakes? How am I supposed to function at a high level all day? How will I manage work and my home life?
There is really no way to know for sure how your brain and body will handle the transition. Chances are, during a leave from work you haven’t been taxing your brain or body the way you did when you were working an 8-hour day. Your physician may advise you to gradually increase your work hours, or have breaks scheduled throughout the day. It’s only natural that when you first return to the work environment you will be tired. The good news is that there are ways you can prepare your body and mind for this change.
At least 2-3 weeks before you are due to return, start gradually adjusting your bedtime and wake up time earlier or later to suit your work schedule. Try to make sure you are getting 8 hours of sleep. If you have been napping, it’s time to phase it out.
Ask your therapists for strategies for managing headaches or pain during the day. Will adjusting your computer monitor help your neck? Will icing your neck periodically help your headaches?
Think about all the tasks or errands you will need to fit into your life after returning to work. You will no longer have all day to complete these tasks. It will be a good idea to build a weekly routine that creates space to complete chores, physical therapy exercises, etc. outside of work hours. You may want to consider meal planning so that you only have to cook a few times a week.
Initially, save harder household tasks for the weekend. You’ll need time to decompress in the evenings.
Remember that nutrition is very important to recovery. If you don’t eat anything until lunchtime, it may be very hard for you to focus. Think about having quick grab-and-go breakfasts at home. If you are not hungry in the mornings, drinking a smoothie may feel easier.
Use lists, calendars, etc. to stay organized.
Take your breaks. A break is not surfing the web for 15 minutes or talking to your coworker. A good break will involve quiet, and perhaps some movement or meditation.
Remember that your providers are there to support you. If you face any struggles as you return to work, be sure to write them down and share.