I'm interviewed about the murders of my father and oldest son, typically leading up to the anniversary of their deaths
OR unfortunately, when a hate crime shooting occurs.
One of the questions or opening comments tend to be "at this time of year, are you reminded of the tragic murders?" Or, "when you heard the news of 'name a hate crime murder', did it bring up feelings from the tragedy you experienced?"
As a griever...I have not one time EVER forgotten that my father and son were murdered. After the 'fire of the pain' scorched my soul for the better part of 5 years, the grief settled in me...just below the surface. 2023 marks our 10th Thanksgiving and Christmas without our very important family members.
I am so appreciative of SHRM for writing this article and equally pleased to have Workplace Healing quoted alongside Ron Gura of Empathy.
Please read this article with the knowledge that the title should have been "Holidays Can Be HARDER for Grieving Employees; Employers Can Offer Support".
My grief doesn't define everything about me AND I am defined by the tragedy that changed the trajectory of my life.
This holiday season, if YOU are crying harder, angrier, more bitter than usual, snippy with everyone (including your pets), allow the tears to flow AND find a friend, a coworker...Call your Employee Assistance Program or mental health benefits offered by your employer.
There is NO shame in crying. In fact, pouring out the pain from your heart in the form of tears WILL help you find healing and a healthier you.
Employers & leaders, take time to review who in your company experienced a traumatic/grief event in the past 12 months, or longer.
Schedule 15 minutes with them to:
1. Ensure they are aware of the 24/7 offerings you have on their behalf. (EAP, Empathy, Talkspace, ALTERNATIVES EAP LLC, LifeSpeak Inc., Lyra Health, New Directions Behavioral Health (now Lucet), Workplace Healing) for example.
2. Ask them how they will be spending time away from the office and work day.
3. Ask them if you could check on them while they are away.
You will not change the event that caused my grief or anyone else's. Your acknowledgement, empathy and compassion help us carry the burden of grief.
#employeewellbeing #employeewellnessprograms #benefitsadministration #empathyatwork #compassionateleadership
