When Tragedy Strikes at Work

There are best practices for coping with tragedy in the workplace, and communication is crucial for all of them.

1. Share all appropriate information. It facilitates healing discussions among workers.
2. Don’t judge others’ reactions. There is no "correct" way of reacting to tragedy. Each person is unique, and the reasons why are complex.
3. Use counseling resources and self-help groups. They can speed your way to a healthful return to your pre-tragedy emotional state.
4. Even if you feel no support is needed, consider a "check-in" that can help keep you from overlooking a reaction that later interferes with social or job functioning.
5. Because tragic events can adversely affect focus and performance, give it time, and be patient with people.

Keith Stein | 10/15/2020

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