How can I manage anxiety when returning to the office?

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I’ve worked from home for two years and now my company is asking employees to return full-time to an open-plan office. I’m experiencing increased anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disruption; how can I manage these health issues while maintaining my productivity and career momentum? What practical steps can I take to request a gradual transition, flexible hours, remote days, or other workplace accommodations, and what resources or legal protections should I explore?

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Answer 1 · 2025-08-05T02:28:27+00:00

ask HR for phased return, flexible hours, hybrid days, quiet space. see GP, therapist, get a note, learn ADA/EEOC rights...

Answer 2 · 2025-08-12T13:53:35+00:00

Going back to the office after so long can feel overwhelming, especially with an open-plan setup..
One thing that helped me was creating a small personal routine before and after work to mentally prepare and decompress. Maybe try meditation or light exercise in the morning. When talking to your employer, frame your requests as ways to boost your performance rather than just comfort—this makes it easier for them to say yes.

Also check if employee assistance programs are available; they often offer counseling or coaching that’s free and confidential😉

Answer 3 · 2025-08-09T10:20:05+00:00

Yeah, jumping back into an open-plan after two years in your own bubble? That’s a shock to the system. You wanna build some personal armor—noise-cancelling headphones aren’t just for show. Also, don’t underestimate the power of setting micro-boundaries: sneak out for walks, schedule your hardest tasks during quieter times if you can. When it comes to asking for accommodations, don’t toss everything at HR all at once; pick one thing that feels doable and see how they respond before piling on. Legal protections are fine but usually slow—focus on what keeps *you* functional today.