Talk to Me: My friend at work has become distant 

Psychologist Caroline Martin is here to answer your questions on whatever issues you are dealing with in life, from work pressure and stress to loneliness and grief

Picture: iStock 

When I joined my company ten years ago, an older staff member took me under her wing. We became good friends, often going on coffee and lunch breaks together. During lockdown, we checked in with each other regularly. However, since we’ve returned to the office, she seems distant and no longer goes to the canteen for breaks. I asked her if anything was wrong but she said ‘everything is fine’. I feel hurt and confused.

In Grey’s Anatomy Meredith and Cristina’s friendship illustrates the power of close bonds at work. When we enjoy positive relationships at work, we are happier, productivity increases and our belief in ourselves is enhanced. This is all the more important when you consider we spend approximately one-third of our life at work.