Coping with Serious Illness in the Workplace

Objectives Common Responses to the Diagnosis of a Serious Illness Practical Strategies to Help Impact on Co-Workers, Friends and Family Members Supportive Resources

Common Responses Grief Fear Withdrawal Vulnerabillity Helplessness Anger Pain Awkwardness Disbelief Resentment

Helpful Things to Say “I am so sorry to hear about your health.” “Are you able to get the support you need right now?” If your colleague is discussing the health issues of a loved one, you might ask, “And how are you doing?” When you feel speechless you might say, "I am completely without words.” People know that you cannot always make it better – they just want you to hang in there with them during difficult times.

How You Can Help Respect your co-worker’s privacy and follow his or her lead. Let your relationship be your guide. Be a good listener. Don’t make your co-worker’s illness the primary topic of conversations. Maintain a good working relationship. Offer specific, practical help. Don’t offer platitudes. Just be you and try not to worry about whether you are doing or saying things right.

Additional Ways to Help Gestures that don’t require your co-worker to actively interact – such as food deliveries, gifts, cards, letters. Create and send an informal office video in which everyone says hello and sends good wishes. Check with HR to see if you can donate some of your sick or vacation time for your co-worker. Designate one person to be the office liaison Organize a blood drive or 5K road race. Make a donation to related charities.

Impact in the Workplace Don’t avoid your co-worker. Seek help if you have trouble coping with your feelings. Talk privately with your manager if you feel overwhelmed.

Living or Caring for a Family Member with a Serious Illness Become educated about your loved one’s disease. Learn how to communicate with healthcare professionals. Minimize stress where you can. Manage your time. Get support for yourself. –Don’t neglect your own needs and feelings. –Feelings of anger, pain, confusion and guilt are all normal. –Don’t expect yourself to be perfect. –Realize your own limitations. –Consider joining a support group. –Don’t try to do everything yourself. Ask for help.

Resources National Institute of Health American Cancer Society, Inc.

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