Around 1.5 million people in the UK are now estimated to have had Covid symptoms for more than three months*. Returning to work whilst suffering from symptoms of long Covid can be hard, so these tips from Mayo Clinic’s Dr. Vanichkachorn could help to navigate the return to work more smoothly.

Communicate effectively
If possible, ask your GP for medical recommendations every 2-4 weeks, and share these with your employer. Although it can be difficult, ask your employer for regular catch ups to discuss how you’re feeling and how you’re handling the return to work. If you’re feeling better and able to take on more work, let them know. Same is true if things are getting worse. Communication is key.

Reshape work
A gradual return to work is going to be more beneficial for your health than a return to full capacity. If possible, try working less hours across the same number of days or working less days at full hours. If your workplace offers temporary alternative duties, you could also explore this option.

Reconsider your daily routine
If you do find yourself unable to return to work for any reason, reconsider your daily routine. Consider the important things you do at home e.g. laundry, cooking, running errands, etc. as work. By doing this, both you and your GP will be able to better estimate the kinds of activities you can do when you do return to your job.

Focus on function
Instead of focusing on getting your health to where it was before you had Covid, make your goal to simply improve your function. Some patients suffering from long Covid will have a permanent change in their baseline health status but that doesn’t mean you can’t live your life.

*Figures from the ZOE Covid study app.