Griefworks BC - Grieving

Our society is aging. There are many older people in our workforce. Chances are that, from time to time, there will be someone in your organization who is grieving or facing a life-limiting situation. Your co-worker may also be grieving the loss of a child, a spouse or a neighbour.

Some people who are mourning find going back to work soon after their loss to be a life-saver or a haven. They say that they are at loose ends staying at home and that they need to be doing something.

They may not be completely emotionally ready to return to work but the alternative of staying at home is just too overwhelming. There may be too many memories or reminders of their child or their spouse. They may feel that they have too many decisions to make at home and need some breathing space. It may just be a matter of financial security.

Other mourners feel that going back to work is overwhelming. They believe that their inability to concentrate and their clouded memory span will prevent them from doing their job. They are easily distracted while grieving. They often begin to cry unexpectedly and would be embarrassed when that happened at work.

Whatever your co-worker's needs at this time should be respected as much as possible. Often, it is not possible to allow extended time away from work. However any negotiated arrangement you can help to provide will usually result in a more productive worker in the long run.