2020: An Absolute Blast, Right? Not!
On March 13, 2020, almost in one solitary moment, our (yes, the collective, meaning every single person) life as we knew it came to a screeching halt when WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic. We ALL experienced similar losses as schools were closed, stay-at-home orders were issued, and corporations began a rapid shift to virtual offices.
With COVID-19 came losses we could not imagine: our daily routine of work and school, freedom to move about as we choose, access to toilet paper, access to the gym, access to medical providers, and time away from our family. With all of that came the overall loss of how we did things. With the loss of our regular routine came feelings of sadness, anxiety, worry, fear, and for many of us, lack of motivation and interest in things. This is grief at its finest. Grief is all of the emotions and physiological symptoms experienced following significant change or loss.
As employers, I am sure you are asking, “Phelica, how do we help?” Well, I am glad you asked.
Although grief is not a diagnosable mental illness, the symptoms are. As management, you are charged with making your work environment social emotionally safe for all employees. Start by being honest and talking openly about how you, personally, have been emotionally and mentally impacted by COVID-19. Research shows that employees are more likely to utilize Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and other supports offered by employers when they feel it is safe and socially acceptable to do so. Companies may also consider expanding the EAP programs and benefits offered. Expansion may include financial wellness education and programs, contracting with massage therapists to provide physical relief or contracting with mental health providers to offer group or individual telehealth consultations to support employees.
As an employee who may be struggling to regain a sense of normalcy because physiological symptoms are spinning, consider the following tips.
Phelica A. Glass meets the needs of individuals and families coping with behavioral and emotional issues by walking with them through their personal journeys.
