Most of us experience difficult events or problems during our lives whereby we need the support of family or friends. We may even seek professional help, particularly if we have been exposed to a traumatic event or feel that we are overwhelmed with a situation and would benefit from assistance with stress management, problem solving and coping strategies. The availability of both formal and informal emotional support enables us to more effectively manage life’s challenges when they arise.
In the workplace, good psychological health and wellbeing amongst employees also contributes to a high performing workforce. The alternative can be costly for employers. For instance, in the United States, employers spend an estimated 300 billion dollars a year on stress related absenteeism, turnover, lowered productivity, and medical, legal and insurance costs.
People with a cognitive impairment (for example, acquired brain injury), psychiatric condition (for example, anxiety) or disability adjustment issues (for instance, difficulty accepting and managing limitations or symptoms) may need ongoing emotional support and rely more heavily on relevant support networks and services. A workplace which understands the importance of and contributes positively towards the wellbeing of its workers would provide such individuals a good opportunity for sustained, productive employment (American Psychological Association 2007).
Workplace solutions and adjustments
There are a number of strategies and services available for employees needing to seek support for work related or personal problems.
On the job strategies
- encourage open communication and active listening skills amongst all staff—taking the time to listen non judgmentally to an employee’s problems or issues and reflecting back to them how difficult it must be in their circumstance can make employees feel they can discuss issues of concern in the workplace (effective communication skills training for staff, particularly supervisors and managers may be useful)
- promote awareness of professional support services available to staff and ensure privacy is protected (for example, provide details regarding a company’s appointed employee assistance program provider or counselling service in newsletters or via email)
- provide a flexible workplace for employees such that they can take extended leave, attend counselling sessions or access other means of formal or informal support during a time of need. See the link below for more information:
- where appropriate, appoint a 'buddy, at work for those who may need extra encouragement and reassurance (Vadim Kotelnikov 2007).
Links to more specific job requirements
Support Services
A trained psychologist or counsellor may be able to provide workers with emotional support. See the following links for professional help.
References
American Psychological Association 2007, Top Companies Show Investing in Employee Health and Wellbeing Leads to Business Success, American Psychological Association, Washington, viewed 15 July 2007,
http://apahelpcenter.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=press_releases&item=35
Vadim Kotelnikov 2007, Building Successful Relationships, Ten3 Business e-Coach, San Diego, viewed 14 July 2007, http://www.1000ventures.com/business_guide/crosscuttings/relationships_main.html