Tips favorising a smooth return to work

Returning to work

Accompanying COVID patients in the workplace is a challenge even for experienced employers since recovery varies and there is still little experience in dealing with the topic. The measures that can be used to support the return to work are correspondingly diverse and individual. However, it has been shown that practicing a profession is usually successful if certain factors are considered.

In collaboration with the REHA Bellikon – Centre of expertise for occupational integration, Long COVID Schweiz and Sulser & Partner AG (case management and professional reintegration) we have developed some tips to support employers.

Three general tips for supporting employees with Long COVID:

1. Less is more: Plan the return to work together with the affected person. Design individual and flexible working models. Distribute more demanding tasks over different days.
2. Maintain relationships: Structure conversations clearly and create a benevolent, appreciative atmosphere.
3. Relieve yourself with professional help: Due to the complex health conditions of those affected and the necessary coordination with social insurance, it is worth delegating support to professional coaching or case management.

 

Here you find three PDFs with detailed information and tips on this topic:

• Three tips to support employees with Long COVID (REHA Bellikon)
• Back to work – Part 1: Understanding employees suffering from Long COVID (Long Covid Schweiz and Sulser & Partner AG)
• Back to work – Part 2: Practical advice for employers when employees with Long COVID return to work (Long Covid Schweiz and Sulser & Partner AG)

Returning to work

Every COVID infection is different and dealing with the disease is very individual. Therefore, the way back to work is very different depending on the symptoms and performance and depending on the job. Progress in performance is not always visible. However, you can make your return to work early and successful, especially if you allow yourself enough time and get helpful support.

Please read the tips for LC affected people, by REHA Bellikon, Centre of expertise for occupational integration.

Three general tips for those affected:

1. Don't go beyond your limits: If you put too much strain on yourself or too soon, so-called "crashes" occur that require long recovery times and prevent the stabilization of initial successes. Therefore, work closely together with specialists from therapy and integration or from your company to gradually build up your ability to work.
2. Take breaks: Listen to your body and take breaks outside of normal hours if you need them.
3. Let yourself be accompanied professionally: Let yourself be accompanied on your way back to work by a professional job coach or case manager, who will be made available to you by the health insurance company or the IV.