The Weight of Grief
by Sarah Lawhorn, MS, LAT, ATC
We know the importance of a pre-task plan—discussing potential risks and preparing for what might happen during a task. We learn to keep an eye out for hazards at the work place. But what if your hazards aren’t work related?
Dealing with a severe illness or death of a loved one is an external stressor that can easily carry over into the workplace. Grief is a natural response, whether it’s anticipatory in nature or sudden in onset, but it is a process that takes time. In a world that is driven by productivity, oftentimes the one who is grieving can feel like they are drifting at sea. We take our 2-3 days of bereavement and return to work trying to act normal while still mourning the loss.
Grieving is like breathing, but we act like we have to hold our breath… and if you pretend you don’t have to do it, you’ll end up choking or passing out.
Wherever We Are. Wherever We Go.
Grief affects the body, mind, and emotions, sometimes in ways we don’t expect. The grieving process is natural and necessary, but it looks different for everyone. At any stage in the process it can affect activities of daily living including job tasks. This means our worksite hazards can become even more hazardous. So how do we recognize and navigate these internal hazards while grieving or caring for a loved one?
The Time To Grieve
Sometimes the tendency is to put our head down and push through the grief. But it’s okay to take time off of work in order to begin the process of grief. Be kind with yourself and remember that the grieving process is different for everybody and involves lots of twists and turns.
It also takes time, so avoid saying things like “I should be over this by now”. Therapist Dr. Shatavia Alexander Thomas explains it this way: “Grieving is like breathing, but we act like we have to hold our breath…It’s a natural process and if you pretend you don’t have to do it or that it doesn’t exist, you’ll end up choking or passing out.”
Communicate And Set Limits
Upon returning to work, it’s important to communicate how you’re doing with those around you. It may feel taboo to talk about, especially in the work place, but it’s important that others around you know what’s going on in order to support you. Allow them to step up and if possible, complete tasks that may carry higher risks as they will be in a better state of mind to do it.
Carry Their Legacy
It’s important to honor the life of a loved one. Don’t be afraid to talk about them and the memories you have. Put up a photo or two at your desk or workstation if you can. Consider how you can honor them in your everyday life.
The weight of grief doesn’t disappear when we step onto a job site or into the workplace. While unseen, it can change how we move through our day, making ordinary tasks feel heavier and workplace hazards even riskier. Recognizing these challenges, allowing space for grief, and leaning on those around us can help us navigate loss while staying present and safe.
Sarah Lawhorn, MS, LAT, ATC || Sarah received her Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from Northwest Christian University (now Bushnell) where she played softball; she then went on to receive her Master’s Degree in Athletic Training from Pacific University in 2019. She spent five years in the high school setting before transitioning to the industrial field with Work Right in July 2024. When not at work or home with her two cats, she loves to travel the world and is constantly planning her next international adventure.
Be sure to check out our other blogs for further injury prevention education and tips for the industrial athlete from Work Right NW!