Life event stress: implications for the workplace

In the light of recent research findings and clinical experience, the authors review the concept of "life event stress" and discuss the potential impact of major life events and crises on performance, work relationships and quality of life in the workplace. Because employees' responses to major life events and crises are affected by a number of factors, including personal resources and access to social support networks, it is in the interest of the employer to provide appropriate education, counselling and referral resources, reasonable accommodation regarding leave and responsibilities, and other forms of assistance and support in the wake of a major life event or crisis. Co-workers can also lend support.