Grief & Loss: Guidelines for Co-Workers
- When Co-workers Experience a Serious Personal Loss
- When a Co-worker is Seriously Ill
- What a Co-worker Dies
- What To Do if You Suffer a Significant Loss
- If the Situation Involves Downsizing or Restructuring at Work
Click here for a PDF of Grief & Loss guidelines for faculty and staff.
When
- Expect tears and sadness.
- Be open, personal and timely in your expression of sympathy.
- Expect to listen to the story of the grieving staff member more than once.
- Respect privacy - honor closed doors and quiet moments.
- Offer to provide specific and appropriate assistance (e.g., baby-sitting, meals).
- Include co-worker in social plans.
- Accept less than best performance for a while, but expect a return to the best they need to know that you recognize the impact of their loss, but that you have confidence in them.
When a Co-worker Is Seriously Ill
- Keep in contact - let them know she or he is still part of the team.
- Learn what can be shared and what is confidential.
- Organize a system of calls, notes and other gestures of support.
When a Co-worker Dies
- Seek an opportunity to share your feelings with other workers and for them to share theirs with you.
- Be prepared to offer more support to those who were particularly close with the deceased.
- If appropriate, choose a fellow worker to serve as liaison with the family and organize the expression of sympathy flowers, card, donation, etc.
What To Do if You Suffer a Significant Loss
- Accept that grief is normal and healing takes time.
- Anticipate that feelings of overwhelming sadness will recur after the period of intense grief is over. Special times might include holidays, anniversaries, and birthdays.
- Realize that others are uncomfortable and inexperienced at dealing with grief, and be prepared to ask for what you need.
- Share your feelings with friends and family.
- If necessary, talk with your supervisor about a temporary adjustment in work hours or work load.
- Ask about the policy on bereavement leave and ask for additional leave if needed.
- If you require emotional support and assistance contact the FASAP office.
If the Situation Involves Downsizing or Restructuring at Work
- Acknowledge your feelings of anger, disappointment or loss.
- Share your feelings with family, friends, and co-workers.
- Learn about university policies regarding transfers, replacements, and rehiring.
- If necessary, seek advice from the employment and personnel representatives for your department.