b'RReettuurrnniinnggttootthheeOOffffiicceeAAnnxxiieettyyBy Marcia Harris Anxiety is characterized by a persistent whole day? We are very lucky to have beenfeeling of apprehension or dread in situations given a hybrid schedule. That allows us a fewthat are not actually threatening. When we days working in the oce each week instead ofwere advised that we would be returning to fivewith the rest still worked remotely. Notthe oce the rst week of June, it felt like everyone is that fortunate.something that was threatening and I admit According to what I have read, it is notI was anxious and afraid. I felt foolish. After weird to feel apprehensive about returning toall, I went into the oce many times during work. For one thing, we have felt safe at homethe 14 months we worked remotely to prepare for so long and we are still worried aboutmailings or pick up supplies. So where was contracting COVID-19 even if we are vaccinated.this anxiety coming from? Wasnt I excited to We have also been social distancing so longsee my coworkers in person again? Wouldntit be nice to dress up for work? I decided I had we havent actually spent time with people into get to the bottom of my feelings. person, as in looking them in the eyes andThe best way I knew how to do this was to having actual conversations. I also long foradmit them. I found out that I am not alone. the day where we can have social interactionsI have talked to many support group leaders where I can give a hug or be given one.and clients who have multiple sclerosis who As the second week of being back in theexpressed their fear of returning to the workplace. oce comes to a close, my feelings of anxietyMy son has a friend who broke down in tears at have subsided quite a bit. I am able to work inthe fear of returning to work. I have read articles my oce with a sense of pride knowing thatabout people who are so fearful they have what we do makes a difference. While weresigned rather than change from working continue to practice all COVID-19 safetyremotely.Evencoworkershavesaidthey protocols here, I can see the sparkle in myhave had some of these anxious feelings, too. coworkerseyes,eveniftheirmaskhidesIt is one thing to come into the oce on your their smile. Hearing their voices, even if fromown time and leave when you are done with their oce down the hall, brings my heart joy.theworkyoucametodo,buttostaythe Perhaps that is what I needed all along.If you feel the need to talk, please consider joining one of the many support groups that arealiated with MS Focus. Email supportgroups@msfocus.org. We are always here for you.41 msfocusmagazine.org'