health & safety
WHEN TRAUMATIC EVENTS OCCUR, THE AFTERMATH COMMONLY
INTERFERES WITH A PERSON’S ABILITY TO FUNCTION
NORMALLY IN THEIR PERSONAL LIFE AND AT WORK.
recent absence from work was a non-illness related issue. These
same employees were more likely to report higher work-related
stress and lower levels of support from their organization for mental
wellness. Regardless of the reaction to a traumatic event and
how a company provides support to its employees, increased absenteeism
or a decrease in productivity often has a negative impact
on an organization’s bottom line.
When employees are properly assisted by the HR team and
other leaders within the company, the negative impact of a traumatic
event on employee engagement and workplace productivity
can be mitigated.
ADVICE FOR EMPLOYERS
For employers and colleagues of someone affected by a traumatic
event, it is important to keep open lines of communication. The
best ways for employers to support their employees in light of a
traumatic event is through the following:
1. Acknowledge that the event occurred. The past cannot
be erased, so it is best to speak about it directly with those
affected. Explain that you support your colleague and, if
applicable, acknowledge awareness of your shared experience
of the traumatic event.
2. Encourage the return to work and household routines in
the shortest time possible. Pair this with the right support
through counselling, which is often provided through an
employee and family assistance program (EFAP).
3. Be ready to listen to the employee’s story/concern without
providing insight of your own. Though you may want to
share stories of similar traumatic events, they may not be well
received. In many cases, it is best to simply listen.
4. Offer practical support. Rather than saying, “Let me know if
you need anything,” offer practical assistance, such as helping to
meet a deadline or giving the employee a ride home after work.
Most people who return to work after a traumatic event – as
many Parisians did last November – are doing so in an effort to
return to their usual routine. It is important to provide a balance
between pushing for the return to routine and compassion. The
best way to do this is offer support, listen and take employees’ reactions
into consideration.
In the wake of a traumatic event, it is essential for leaders to provide
an environment of support for all employees affected, whether
from an internal resource or through external expertise. n
Noi Quao is manager, Traumatic Event Support Services at Morneau
Shepell.
Adam Gregor /Shutterstock.com
40 ❚ MARCH/APRIL 2016 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL
