Employee Assistance Program Professionals Can Offer Help to Employee Facing Memories of Traumatic Events

Helping Employees Coping With the Pain of Traumatic Event Anniversaries

Anniversaries of traumatic events can cause anxiety, depression, or sadness for employees. As an EAP staffer, you may be sought out by workers for support during an anniversary of a traumatic event they experienced in the past.

These anniversary effects around the date or season when a loved one has passed, an assault occurred, or an accident happened, or possibly a local or national tragedy visited a community, can leave employees in a troubled state where EAP support is crucial to workplace productivity and restoration of mental well-being.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), reliving this grief is natural, but the healing process can be different for everyone. As an employee, you may find it challenging to work or lack the motivation to complete your assignments. If you experience a difficult time when a painful anniversary comes around, there are ways to ease your emotional distress.

Be Aware of the Events and Dates That Affect You

The Viva Center, Washington, D.C., recommends identifying the events that cause emotional stress to help you plan and navigate those times more easily. Are the holidays difficult for you because a loved one died during that season, or does September 11^th trigger your anxiety over the terrorist attacks? Whatever the event or date, being aware that you may need support during that time will help you seek it beforehand to lessen the effects.

Seek Support From Loved Ones

As the anniversary date approaches, find friends, family members, or close co-workers you can talk to and who are good listeners. Sharing your memories of the event and your feelings may help relieve some of your pain. If you find it hard to discuss your feelings with anyone, just spending time with loved ones also can help bring you comfort.

Find a Way to Honor the Anniversary

Commemorating the anniversary may also be healing. Consider honoring a loved one by planting a tree or donating to a charity they embraced. Look for community events to attend in remembrance of victims of a tragedy that spurs your sadness. Depending on the circumstance, your workplace may help you honor the anniversary. Whatever you find appropriate and comforting is the best way to mark the date.

Avoid Media Reports If the Event Is in the News

If the local or national media cover the anniversary of the traumatic event, try to avoid news reports during that time. Seeing the images and reading the accounts of what occurred that day may only heighten your anxiety. However, some people find comfort in remembering the victims of a tragic event and knowing they are not alone in feeling sad.

Take Care of Yourself

Self-care is essential during these emotional periods. Remaining healthy is key to helping you deal with emotional challenges. Make sure to get enough sleep. Avoid overeating and alcohol and drugs. Take walks in the park, ride your exercise bike, or go to the gym like you usually do.

Focus on Activities That Keep Your Mind Occupied

According to the APA, keeping busy doing things you enjoy will help keep your mind off the traumatic event. Activities can include whatever you find fun or comforting, perhaps reading, hiking, knitting, bike riding, or hobbies.

How EAP Can Help You Through This Difficult Time

Sometimes you may need professional care to navigate through the pain and depression. The anniversary of a traumatic event may be one of those times. Contact your workplace’s Employee Assistance Program, whose representatives can help find you the support you need, whether from a therapist, a psychologist, or other licensed professional. Your workplace recognizes that employees sometimes need help, and EAP is there to offer it.