Employee Assistance Program: Dealing with Grief and Other Issues
When Disaster Strikes: What You Can Expect; What You Can Do
-Information provided by the
Family & Children's Service of Ithaca, NY
When a traumatic incident occurs, it is common for people at the worksite to have different reactions.
We Know That:
Some individuals will be seriously affected by the event;
Some individuals will not be affected at all, and;
Most individuals will be affected somewhat.
Feelings You or Your Co-Workers May Experience:
Disbelief
Shock
Bewilderment
Frustration/Anger ("Why did this have to happen?")
Fear/Anxiety ("Am I at risk?")
Blame
Guilt ("If onlys")
Detachment
Vulnerability
Physical Symptoms You or Your Co-Workers May Experience:
Rapid Heart Rate
Shortness of Breath
Headaches
Nausea/Diarrhea
Fatigue
Other symptoms experienced when under stress
Behaviors You or Your Co-Workers May Experience:
Avoidance of subject
Poor concentration
Poor memory
Intrusive thoughts
Lack of flexibility
Irritability at work or at home
Hypervigilence
Turning to alcohol and other substances to numb the stress
For help with these issues, Cornell staff, faculty, and retirees are urged to call 255-1531 for more information or to set up an appointment.