Expectations are often cited by employees as a key source of
stress during the holidays, but pressure to participate in activities and
events is less of a problem for many people than the sheer pressure of how one
is supposed to feel during this time
of year.
It's not so much the expectations of activities that may affect employees, it's the stress of faking how one feels that is the kicker.
If an employee suffers from depression, or if this time of year includes
struggles over
memories past, help workers focus on the here and now, and teach them a bit about avoiding the “future-focus” of what they imagine is coming down the road.
Ask employees if they can identify from past holiday seasons where their support network lies? These may be individuals or even events that provide comfort and reduce stress. Some family members are more supportive than others in our time of need. You may notice in your personal life that some family are far more empathic in their communication and masters at saying the right thing. Others families may be so self-absorbed that listening is more than they can stand.
Have employees during an EAP assessment consider a plan of action. Have this include when they will attempt to connect or share time with these special people.
Also have employees Include in their support plan a way to connect with your company’s employee assistance program again during the holiday season or a mental health professional.
Employees should be prompted with the statement that they may only need a session or two to feel energized and in more control of their emotional state.
There’s an adage among members of 12-step groups: “Bring the body, and the mind will follow.” It means that behaviors can sometimes influence feelings. So, if the opportunity to participate in a seasonal event appears, and your EAP client doesn't feel motivated to attend, consider whether participation might surprise him or her with an uplifting experience and a positive change in mood they might otherwise have missed.
This article is founded one from the December issue of Frontline Employee newsletter for EAPs and workplace wellness programs. You can download free information here and use the EAP newsletter to help your program for a few months free so you can see the impact.
For more resources of EAPs and human resource managers, visit http://workexcel.com
