It is apparent that the pandemic has pushed organizations and institutions to find more ways to innovate and adapt to the sudden shift of working on-site to making the online world its office space. Adjustments in both personal and professional aspects were necessary in order to cope with the challenges of living amidst a health crisis. 

Despite the situation of operating under work-from-home arrangements and maintaining a skeleton workforce, the DOST Advanced Science and Technology (DOST-ASTI) initiated online activities in response to the new normal. For one, the institute launched a monthly virtual Kapihan session, which brings its staff members together to discuss updates and new announcements. Kapihan also includes non-formal activities such as games and trivia for ASTI staff to enjoy and participate in.  

Also early this year, the Advanced Science and Technology Institute Employee Association (ASTIEA) Health and Wellness Webinars Series was organized in partnership with Cocolife Health Care. Dr. Alexander Anacin, wellness supervisor of Cocolife discussed the following topics: Coping Up With Work-from-Home Stress, Staying Healthy While Staying At Home, and Dealing with Anxieties During a Pandemic.  

Helpful tips on how to deal with work stress and improve employee mental well-being such as having proper time management, taking breaks, exercising, getting enough sleep, asking for help, and seeking professional aid were discussed among the participants. It was also mentioned that one should be aware of triggers for them to better manage and cope with anxiety. Participants were given the chance to ask about different mental health-related questions to the resource person during the open forum session of each webinar. 

The DOST-ASTI encourages its employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance by providing support and similar health and wellness initiatives. 

To know more, visit the DOST-ASTI website at https://asti.dost.gov.ph/projects/coare/ or through Asia Research News at https://www.asiaresearchnews.com/content/dost-advanced-science-and-technology-institute