Apologies for not publishing a Newsletter last week, vacations got in the way. ORGOC would like to wish our customers, clients and subscribers a Happy Holiday Season and Joyous New Year. This time of year we see an exchange of cards and gifts between customers and service providers that make us think about each other in a positive light. It is a time when we think about the employees, colleagues and co-workers and what they mean to us as we share gifts and cards as well. So for this time of year this newsletter will focus on staff appreciation and the implications on mental health and morale. ORGOC specializes in the mental health disabilities and believes that individuals need to remain connected to their workplace even in times of poor mental health. The Holiday Season is a critical time for individuals who may be suffering from a psychological disability and are very vulnerable.

Mental Health and Staff Appreciation

Everyone needs positive reinforcement from time to time. It is important that this season be a joyous one even in the workplace. There are workplaces that become busier at this time of year and as a result stress levels increase while others slow down. Christmas is stressful enough with shopping and preparations to be done. Many employees will often bring that stress to the workplace. If the workplace is retail the stress is enhanced. This becomes a critical time for employers to provide for some form of relief, understanding and knowledge around the impact this stress may have on the individual.

The Staff party is one place where appreciation may be expressed. It's important to consider inviting the employees that may be on short or long term disability. These folks need to stay connected in any way possible to the workplace; it assists in any return to work planning.

Of more importance and value than the Christmas party is for front line managers to provide direct support and encouragement to the front line staff, while receiving the same from above during the hectic, stressful periods. Ensuring positive reinforcement is one step to preventing stress build up at this time of year. Everyone needs to know they are appreciated year round, but as stress and workload increases it is especially important. Providing for additional breaks or special treats during the busy times will also assist in alleviating some of the stressors.

We have noted with our customers that there is an increase in employee absence at this time of year in both types of companies, those that get busier and those that slow down. If it's not busy it's an excellent opportunity to use vacation time. Those that get busier cannot afford absences, however many staff find it difficult to cope with the increased stress, both at work and in their daily life. Some will become ill as there are correlations between stress and some physical illnesses. It's important to understand that this will occur and take measures in preparation of the season, such as training in stress management and the effects of increased stress on the body. This type of knowledge will then allow employees to prepare themselves for the season.

It's amazing how appreciation and respect of the employee can go a long way. Knowledge is power and to be able impart that knowledge prior to stressful periods you often are able to minimize or prevent the impact.

It is however something that needs to be considered on a regular basis rather than just at this time of year. This season reminds of vulnerabilities and stress reactions, it is important to express and understand rather than suppress and ignore.

Once again the staff and their families wish all subscribers a Happy Holiday and wish you all health and success in the New Year.