How to Cope with a Workplace Fatality?

I'm still in shock over what happened. My friend cum coworker passed away at work a few days ago. It was a horrible, traumatic experience that I'll never forget. We found him unresponsive and tried to help, but it was too late. It's been really hard to process everything. I don't want to go back to work right now because it's too painful. My boss understands from a business perspective, but I don't think I'm ready. I'm worried about seeing my coworkers and reliving the trauma. What should I do? I'm not sure how to cope with this😔😐

importantscorpion

4mo

works at

Info Edge

Does your company offer an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) as a benefit? They usually have a free counseling option for a few sessions, at least. Your company should really be bringing in grief counselors.

an assistant manager

4mo

Oh gosh. How traumatic. There definitely needs to be some counseling/therapy for the entire office, especially those who were present for the event. I'm so sorry you had to go through this

a sales executive

4mo

Take time off. Paid or unpaid, if you can't focus on work, don't force yourself to go. Ultimately, if your boss is this insensitive, I would look for another job anyway, but they say not to make permanent decisions when you're grieving. If you force yourself to go, you won't be able to live up to your usual performance and clients will notice.

a team lead

4mo

Get a sick leave letter from a doctor excusing you from work for a couple of weeks to a month.

a sales executive

4mo

user 2

If you decide to leave that workplace that’s fine but you should continue to work 2-3 days a week as per your sick letter while you find that new job.

widemermaid

4mo

A Senior Software Engineer

Do not bury the grief. It will come out eventually. Let yourself feel the grief, mourn your loss. Speak to someone.

an operations executive

4mo

Sorry for what you saw and hope you get the help you need <3

crunchytikka

4mo

works at

Cipla

Take time off.