Managing concerned employees

When developing a pandemic plan it is important to include strategies and actions to address psychological issues which could have negative effects on the workplace.

Experience has shown that in times of crisis people make judgments about the quality of support they and others receive from an organisation.

Where appropriate support is provided, an organisation has a better chance of recovering from a crisis. If not, the result could be a cycle of low morale, poor performance, loss of productivity and rising absenteeism.

Individuals respond differently to crises

In the event of a threatened or real pandemic (or any crisis) an organisation’s main mental health challenge is to maintain staff moral and minimise stress and panic.  Management of the 'worried well' is a common situation when serious health events are reported widely in the media.

Giving staff clear and easy access to accurate information is important, including a clear explanation of the company's pandemic response. This is the best way to avoid the panic and fear associated with an unknown future threat.

Managing during a pandemic

Managing the fear associated with an actual pandemic is more difficult and complex-although the principles of strong leadership and ensuring everyone has access to correct, accurate, simple information remain critical.

Seminars, general presentations of preparedness, and the ability of staff to ask questions is an important feature of maintaining corporate psychological health. Specific counselling services may need to be introduced if not already available.

Psychological support, post-pandemic

While many people will bounce back after a crisis and successfully 'get on with life', some staff may experience ongoing difficulties. Therefore, in the weeks following a pandemic it will be important to monitor staff to identify any at risk individuals.

Medibank Health Solutions can assist in the prevention and management of psychological issues in the workplace.  Contact us for more information.