December 05, 2024

151. How to deal with grief at work

57 minutes

Truth, Lies, and Work is an award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. It’s presented by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, offering insights and expert advice on creating amazing workplace cultures.

Trigger warning:

This episode discusses grief, bereavement, and the challenges of navigating loss in the workplace, particularly during the holiday season. Some listeners may find the content emotionally distressing. If you feel this topic might be too difficult for you right now, we completely understand and encourage you to prioritise your well-being. You can skip this episode and join us next time.

Episode Overview:

This week, we tackle a deeply moving and essential topic: grief in the workplace. With the holiday season amplifying feelings of loss, this episode explores how organizations can better support bereaved employees and create compassionate spaces.

Our guest, Maria Georgiou, is a mental health advocate and founder of MGAG. Her work focuses on bereavement and wellness, helping individuals and businesses navigate the challenges of grief. Maria shares her personal story of loss, including the passing of her father and daughter, and the invaluable lessons she’s learned about returning to work and supporting grieving colleagues.

🗝️ Key Topics Discussed:

The emotional, cognitive, physical, behavioral, and spiritual impacts of grief.

Practical ways managers can support grieving employees, especially during emotionally charged times like the holidays.

Why listening and active communication are essential skills for leaders.

Creating effective policies for bereavement and compassionate return-to-work plans.

How small gestures, such as acknowledging important dates, can make a big difference.

💬 Key Takeaways:

Check-ins Matter: Ensure check-ins are separate from performance reviews to focus on well-being genuinely.

Flexibility is Key: Tailor support to the individual, such as adjusting working hours or offering work-from-home options.

Avoid Assumptions: Never tell a grieving colleague how they should feel. Instead, listen and validate their emotions.

Structured Policies Help: Bereavement policies and training ensure that managers feel equipped to support employees while maintaining productivity.

The Power of Small Gestures: Acknowledging anniversaries or sending a card can provide comfort and show empathy.

Connect with Maria:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-georgiou-60b5b491/

Website: www.emgeag.org

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

UK Resources:

Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.

Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463, or visit mind.org.uk.

Cruse Bereavement Support: Call 0808 808 1677 or visit cruse.org.uk for resources and support with grief.

US Resources:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.

GriefShare: Visit griefshare.org to find local support groups.

Global Resources:

International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP): Visit iasp.info/resources/Crisis_Centres/ to find crisis centers worldwide.

Befrienders Worldwide: Visit befrienders.org for global helplines.

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: [email protected]

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

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By Leanne Elliott, C. Psychol.

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