In Practice 26: 336-338 (2004)
© 2004 British Veterinary Association

Isolation in the workplace: taking control, finding a way forward

¹ Doherty Stobbs, Winchester

ISOLATION and loneliness are often related, but not always synonymous. Often, a period of isolation can be a useful time to reflect and recharge one's batteries. However, if a feeling of isolation becomes overwhelming, it can impact on mental and physical health and become a real problem. There are a number of reasons why a person might feel isolated in the workplace - such as relocation, unsupportive colleagues or employers, shyness or simply the constraints of a demanding on-call rota. In this article, Christine Stobbs suggests some ways of handling the situation.