Grief and work: returning to and staying in the workplace after a bereavement

May 9, 2026 · Luca Luca · Uncategorized

Work plays a significant part in our daily lives.

Workplaces are not merely functional spaces, but relational contexts, made up of habits, people, roles and bonds which, over time, become part of our identity.

When a loss occurs – whether personal or related to the life of the organisation – we often realise one thing: work goes on, even if we are no longer the same. Yet, often, there is no room for grief: we return to our desks, to meetings, to deadlines, as if nothing had happened.

Many people thus find themselves having to ‘carry on’ with work whilst internally grappling with shock, sadness, a sense of unreality, emptiness or unease. The place that was once familiar can become laden with memories, tension or silences that are difficult to bear. In such cases, grief becomes intertwined with demands for efficiency, normality and emotional control, making the grieving process even more complex.

This webinar has been created with the aim of offering a space for understanding and guidance for those who are experiencing a loss at work and are struggling to understand how to return, stay and feel ‘at ease’ again in that context.
The webinar will address, in particular:

  • what happens emotionally when a significant loss enters the workplace and grief must coexist with professional demands, rhythms and responsibilities;
  • the most common reactions when returning to the workplace after a loss (distress, avoidance, hyperactivity, emotional detachment);
  • the burden of ‘having to function’ and feeling out of place in one’s professional environment;
  • how to recognise and validate one’s own experience, even when the context does not;
  • some internal and relational resources that can help you remain at work without denying your grief;
  • a final space for reflection and questions, to share thoughts and experiences in an atmosphere of listening and respect.

A session designed for those experiencing bereavement or a significant loss (personal or work-related) who feel the need to better understand what they are going through, so they can return to and remain in the workplace with greater awareness and less loneliness.

 

THE WEBINAR IS LED BY

 

Francesca OlivaDr Francesca Oliva [contact]

I am a psychologist and thanatologist; I have always worked to help individuals and groups navigate and manage change and transformation.