Returning to Work

Tips to support someone returning to work

When an employee is contemplating a return to work after a mental health leave, there can be a lot of anxiety and fear, particularly if they were away for an extended period of time. They may be asking themselves if they will be able to meet the work demands or expectations, will there be support, how will co-workers react, and they may be worried about a host of other unknowns.

The manager has a key role to play in making a return to work successful. It starts long before the employee’s first day back at work. This page walks you through some helpful tips to support someone through this process.

You can safely support employees returning to work after a leave, or even those struggling but still at work, by engaging them in the solutions related to performance and well-being. There is no one-size-fits-all but there are many common accommodation strategies that you can consider.

There is no one-size-fits-all but there are many common accommodation strategies that you can consider.

Maintain contact during the leave to help the employee stay connected

Be patient as contact may be difficult initially
Ask how they would like contact (email, phone, text)
Be compassionate – “anything I can do to help”
Avoid questions that may seem invasive or investigative
Share information about current events and news (but not about their own job or tasks)
Treat them the same as those off work for physical illnesses (cards, flowers, etc.)
Ask them what they would like communicated to their co-workers (prevent gossip)

Connect with the employee prior to the first day back at work

Consider and discuss the treating professionals’ recommendations
Offer reduced work hours to start, with a gradual increase
Ask about tasks they agree they can accomplish and energy levels during the day
Provide flexible scheduling for appointments
Plan to minimize stressors (lighting, noise, distractions)
Review other accommodation strategies that may be helpful
Discuss what they would like communicated to their team ahead of their return

Ensure the first day back at work is not long and has few expectations

Gradually provide re-orientation or re-training to support the employee’s success

Action the plans you discussed with the employee

Other resources:

Workplace Strategies for Mental Health
- Return to work response for leaders
- Accommodation strategies
Here to Help
- Wellness Modules
- Employers can take a leadership role in workplace accommodation