How To Cope With Grief While Working
Presented by BetterHelp.
The death of a loved one and the grief it evokes is often the most stressful period in our lives. Emotionally and physically, it can take a toll. The unfortunate reality is that many employers expect their employees to return to work long before they are ready to continue their "normal" activities.
Whether you're returning to work following a funeral, memorial ceremony, or interment service, this article offers helpful and healthy tips for coping with your grief.
Don’t assume that your coworkers already know everything
After returning to work, don't assume that all of your coworkers are aware that you've been thinking about your departed loved one all day. While mourning clothing like "widow's weed" and black armbands were formerly common, they're now a thing of the past, and people don't wear them anymore.
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Even if an employee or an employee's loved one dies, most firms and corporations manage the fact of death just as inadequately and awkwardly as most individuals do when someone dies. We're afraid of death, so we use euphemisms like "death-denying" or "death-denying" to avoid stating what we really mean, or we avoid saying anything at all.
Before or after your return, tell your coworkers/professional peers about the death of someone you cared about and how you're feeling. This way, you won't have to replay the experience every time someone finds out.
Make a plan to get away
There will be times when your loss-response will conflict with how you want to act, and that's okay. You can't reasonably anticipate everything that can trigger your sadness once you return to work.
Are there any quiet spaces nearby that you may utilize while calming your emotions in the event that you unexpectedly burst into tears? Could you wait until a set break, lunch period, or your finish-time arrives if you're feeling sorry over the death of a loved one?
Is it possible for you to work remotely (telecommute), come in later or leave earlier for a short period of time, or be allowed to leave the office for 10 to 20 minutes if you are feeling overwhelmed by your grief? When you're mourning, it's okay to feel sad and even cry. Instead of resisting it, prepare yourself in advance. Learn more about the adverse effects of bottling up your emotions when you’re going through a hard time at this page.
Accept that you won’t be 100% okay
While you're mourning, it's best not to make any important life decisions like quitting your job or looking for a new position. In addition, once you return to work, you should be prepared for the impact your loss will have on your ability to do your job well.
Rather than beating yourself up over the fact that you're not acting or doing as well as you'd want, try to accept that you're not your typical self right now and go on.
Your boss and coworkers can assist you fully appreciate what you're struggling with, as well as clear up any misunderstandings about your recent performance or possible animosity from other employees that they need to "pick up your slack," so don't be afraid to talk to them. Don't be too hard on yourself right now, because everything will become easier over time.
Go easy on others
For instance, if you return to work after a funeral and notice that a coworker is aloof or that people no longer stop by to speak, you are probably not making things up.
When someone is grieving the loss of a loved one, many people simply don't know what to say or do, and they automatically separate themselves from the bereaved.When you return to work, you'll be less likely to feel isolated or take things personally if you're aware that this could happen. After the loss of a loved one, you and your colleagues will ultimately return to a level of "normal" that is more comfortable for everyone.
