If you work in the police, the armed forces, as a firefighter or a first responder, you go into it knowing you’ll be dealing with trauma regularly. But, in today’s world, we recognise that trauma can happen in any workplace.

The top workplace events that cause trauma, stress and anxiety are considered to be:

  • Job losses and layoffs
  • Workplace criminal activity and workplace violence Death of a colleague
  • Natural disasters impacting on the workplace

Rise in post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression have climbed dramatically. Statistics indicate that more than one in five people experienced one or more of these at some point in the pandemic.

When emotional trauma is left unchecked, it can lead to issues such as presenteeism, task avoidance, loss of motivation, absenteeism or accidents. Workers may also have difficulty managing emotions such as anger, fear or anxiety.

While traumatic events in the workplace should, of course, be avoided in the first place, organisations need to be trained in how to deal with them if they do happen. And, these events can offer an opportunity that could lead to positive change. If addressed correctly, traumatic events can help employers to show their employees that they prioritise their mental health and wellbeing.

What employers can do

  • It helps to develop a healthy company culture that prioritises stress-management tools and the development of emotional intelligence. Open communication systems are ideal.
  • Access to support systems such as on-site support, telephone and app-based services, and peer-to-peer sessions can also make a difference.
  • Leadership should support employees through traumatic events and monitor them thereafter.
  • Employers should be on the lookout for emotional, physical, cognitive and social side-effects and signs of trauma, and have systems in place to deal with them.

Takeaway

Work environments can always be safer and more supportive and when they are, employees tend to be happier and more productive. By prioritising the mental health of everyone in the workplace, the organisation, in general, will be better off.

You and your immediate family have access to the ICAS EWP which provides an omnichannel point of access.

Written by LifeAssist