Trauma Informed Workplace - Tips for HR

Do your employees experience trauma at work or are some of their 'off' behaviours a result of trauma somewhere else?

I spoke with Dimple Dhabalia about what she learned about trauma. She started out as a lawyer and then worked with refugees around the world. I think we can all appreciate how hard it might be to hear those horrifying and heart-breaking stories over and over. Unsurprisingly, she burned out.

However, instead of getting therapy and going on leave like the rest of us might do, Dimple wrote a book: "Tell Me My Story: Challenging the Narrative of Service before Self" In it she shares her insights on recognizing and addressing trauma at work.

The experience of our employees might not be as remarkable as Dimple's but we also don't know what people have experienced. How can we be mindful of that?

Dimple explained:

- the difference between "big T" and "little t" traumas, emphasizing how seemingly minor stressors can accumulate and impact an employee's ability to function effectively

• How recognizing the humanity in employees can lead to better decision-making and a more supportive work environment.

• Exploring practical methods for managing stress responses and improving emotional intelligence in the workplace.

• Creating a psychologically safe workplace: Gain insights on fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of retaliation.

After this discussion, I may have more questions than answers. HR has a job to do that sometimes can cause or trigger trauma. How do we get the job done with sensitivity? It's a big question - and this episode will get you thinking.

Find Dimple at Roots in the Clouds: https://www.rootsintheclouds.com/ Her book, Tell Me My Story: https://www.amazon.ca/Tell-Me-Story-Challenging-Narrative/dp/B0CN3TYYP7 Find Andrea at https://thehrhub.ca/