Christmas is normally a time when mental health problems tend to get worse.
Because this year everyone is being asked to isolate from friends and family for the holidays, the danger of anyone’s mental health taking a turn for the worse is very real.
This is a unique time in our history, and it requires unique solutions by companies if they want to support workers over the holidays.
EAPs are a great resource, but they require workers to reach out and lack the personal touch that can make all the difference to a depressed and isolated worker.
One solution would be to designate several supervisors and/or employees to reach out to all staff over the holiday season with a phone call.
It would be wise to first call those workers who are known to be single.
A phone call asking them how they are doing can have a strong positive effect on a worker’s feelings and mental health. Keep it casual and light.
Another solution would be to send all workers a letter wishing them well during the season. Sign them in ink and include numbers for the EAP and a designated contact person at the company if possible. Time the letters to arrive close as possible to December 25th.
Whomever is chosen to make or receive the calls should be trained in protocols to follow in case of an emergency.
These unique measures could prevent serious mental health related harms over the holiday season.
At the least they will make workers appreciate and feel loyal towards the company.
By: Julian Toy H.S.C. Substance Abuse Professional
Member of The Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals
If you have questions, need training or literature, please contact Julian directly:
Direct Line: 905-866-7301
E-Mail: juliantoy@myaddictionexperts.com
Web: www.myaddictionexperts.com
Services: Fit for Duty/Drug and Alcohol training, COVID 19 Mental Health Training, Fit for Duty/Drug and Alcohol policy development, Defensible Documentation Training and employee Substance Abuse Assessments.
Literature: “Optimizing Mental Health during COVID 19” E-Booklet.
Preferred provider of Fit for Duty/Drug and Alcohol training and COVID 19 Mental Health Training - Eastern Construction Ltd.