The American Psychological Association found in 2008 that eight out of 10 people anticipated a stressful holiday season, largely because of the economy.  Unfortunately, 2009 didn’t provide much improvement. 

For a case manager at a One Stop center, or a customer who’s been out of work for months, the frustration and stress can feel especially overwhelming at this time of year.  Acknowledging the situation and creating opportunities to alleviate it, isn’t just a nice gesture, it’s a wise safety precaution as well.

1.      Health experts advise us to pay attention to prolonged stress, as it can affect the immune system, and lead to a variety of illnesses.  Allow and encourage staff to take a break, walk around, step outside for some fresh air, and breathe deeply and slowly.

2.      Use humor where appropriate. Laughter is good for us. Cartoons in the break room or a lighthearted wisecrack can build camaraderie and remind staff they’re not alone.

3.      Have a session for all with a chance to learn a few basic stress management exercises.

4.      Acknowledge the reality of post-holiday stress. Consider offering a workshop on managing bills and budgets; or tips to trim heating expenses; gestures that demonstrate you care about the extra challenges people face at this time of year. 

5.      Pay attention to those who seem to be carrying more stress or frustration.

a.      For staff, find a time to talk and determine if there is a way to help relieve some of the burden they’re feeling.  If you have an HR/EAP person, make sure your staff know how to access that help.

b.      For customers, your case managers are in the best position to notice if someone seems ‘on the edge’. Everyone should know the guidelines for handling angry situations that could turn violent.

Stress is always with us, but getting through the holidays and a harsh winter can kick it up a notch or two. For those who are unemployed, and the staff who are trying to help them, this time of year can carry extra weight.  Job seekers and staff will do better if they have the tools and the guidance to help manage stress created by unemployment.

In addition to many titles on workforce issues, Life Skills Education publishes booklets on successfully addressing stress, depression, domestic violence, substance abuse, and interpersonal relations. Please visit www.LSE-Online.com to view samples and a catalogue.

Life Skills Education specializes in designing cost-effective customer communication tools for workforce boards and their One-stop Career Centers. Customized, time-saving and on point, our customer resource booklets and brochures get the right message, to the right person, at the right time.  Call our hotline for your free sample now at 800-783-6743 x203, or email us at info@lifeskilled.com