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How can I return to work while grieving? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:01
  SPEAKER_00: How can I return to work while grieving?
• 0:05
  SPEAKER_00: It can be extremely difficult to even think about returning to work after losing a loved one.
• 0:10
  SPEAKER_00: You may have had to adapt your everyday routine and take on more responsibility depending on the circumstances.
• 0:18
  SPEAKER_00: Usually it's not a choice more than a more of a necessity to have to return to work.
• 0:24
  SPEAKER_00: Here are some practical steps you can take with your employer.
• 0:28
  SPEAKER_00: So number one, communication is important.
• 0:31
  SPEAKER_00: Have an honest and confidential conversation with your line manager or HR about what you may need in way of support to get back to your job.
• 0:42
  SPEAKER_00: Number two, this can be a phased return, so ease yourself back in, especially if you've had a prolonged period of time off.
• 0:52
  SPEAKER_00: Number three, flexible working hours can be looked at, you know, especially if you've got children to take care of and your responsibilities.
• 1:02
  SPEAKER_00: Number four, ask who your EAP provider is, it may be us.
• 1:07
  SPEAKER_00: And EAPs usually provide a free counselling service, and EAP is the employee assistance program your company may have in place.
• 1:18
  SPEAKER_00: Number five, if you feel unable to work due to grief-related issues, then please speak to your GP.
• 1:26
  SPEAKER_00: Grief can affect our sleep, our appetite, our ability to function every day.
• 1:32
  SPEAKER_00: Just even to just think clearly.
• 1:36
  SPEAKER_00: Number six, our grief journey is very personal and sometimes our work environment is not understanding of this.
• 1:43
  SPEAKER_00: So do take your time, seek the right support so you can go back to work with this in place if possible.
• 1:51
  SPEAKER_00: It will make things a lot easier.
• 1:54
  SPEAKER_00: So work can be a good distraction and a much needed step to help you return to life, which inevitably has to go on.
• 2:04
  SPEAKER_00: But pushing yourself too early can be detrimental.
• 2:08
  SPEAKER_00: It's also good to have a space at work where you can go if you feel overwhelmed too, even if it's in your car.
• 2:15
  SPEAKER_00: There are charities and organisations who offer free bereavement support, and I always sign post to Cruise Bereavement Support for general bereavement support, and their helpline is 0808 808 1677.
• 2:30
  SPEAKER_00: Or if it's cancer related, Marie Curie.
• 2:34
  SPEAKER_00: They offer six free sessions with the same volunteer, and their helpline number is 0800 090 2309.
• 2:43
  SPEAKER_00: Please look after yourself and get support if you need it, and thank you for listening.