Handling Workforce Reductions and Layoffs with Mental Health in Mind

Layoffs aren’t anyone’s favorite topic—in fact, most of us would rather not discuss them at all. But not providing adequate communication, especially when layoffs are imminent, can increase stress and anxiety, and eventually lead to distrust among workers.

When it comes to workforce reductions, everyone is impacted. Managers may feel guilt, stress, and fatigue over having to let go of their staff. Remaining employees may experience sadness around losing their friends and colleagues, stress from increased workloads, and fear of what the future holds. This can result in productivity dips, burnout, a contagious increase in cynicism, and higher levels of turnover.