Workplace Grief

CHAPTER TEN

Advantages for Pat in working were the support received, the social structure she had developed with people who respected and cared for her, and the sense of making an important contribution. The main disadvantage was her low level of energy since her son's death. Pat would have preferred working half-time because even the simple household routines were difficult and took more time. Although she felt more energy by the six month interview, she was not as motivated as usual. Getting out of bed for work in the mornings was particularly difficult. This was when Pat felt her son's loss the most.

Other than the standard three day bereavement leave, no official procedure for bereavement existed. The Chief expressed a desire to introduce a program for co-workers in this situation. Both co-workers expressed increased tension in the workplace. John believed that having someone talk to the staff at such a time would greatly reduce the effects of such a tragedy. When this had been done on an informal basis in the workplace of Pat's husband, her husband had observed a significant difference. The group receiving help were more relaxed and comfortable in approaching him about the death. The others appeared awkward and often avoided him.

The progressive approach taken by the organization where Pat was employed had a positive influence on her work experience while grieving. For the most part, her needs were met. Her supervisors stated that they would meet whatever needs she had and were willing to stand behind her, should there be any problems in accomplishing this.

The difficulty she was experiencing in the workplace was based mainly on the general atmosphere of working in a probation department. Her increased sensitivity to death, especially suicide, made the typical "gallows humor" less tolerable. Where she was once not bothered by such comments, she was now offended.