I'm preparing to return to work tomorrow after taking a month off due to my father's passing. I've been feeling really anxious about it, to the point where I feel physically sick. My workplace environment is quite challenging, especially with three women who are in their 50s. They tend to be passive-aggressive, and I know they will have a lot of comments and sly digs waiting for me after my time away. I work in a role where we all have the same job title and salary, which seems to bother them since I'm the youngest. I usually keep to myself because I wouldn't choose to associate with them outside of work. However, I'm genuinely worried about how their behavior will affect me now that I've had a month off to deal with my grief. I’ve already spoken to HR about the situation, but they seem more focused on protecting the company than supporting employees. My manager is in a different location, and while I've expressed my concerns, I don't expect any real change. I just want to handle this situation without losing my cool, but I know the passive-aggressive comments are coming.