Personal Issues And The Role Of HR: Complete Guide

HR has a very difficult role in lots of ways. Human resources have to deal with lots of different issues, and sometimes the role just feels like an endless to do list! 

Personal issues in companies are very common, and HR have a responsibility to deal with these problems when they arise. 

This article will explore the role of HR when it comes to personal issues. Read on for more information!

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Common Personal Issues In The Workplace 

There are a lot of different personal issues that make their way into the workplace. These issues often disrupt the workplace and productivity. 

Some of the most common personal issues in the workplace include: 

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Financial Issues 

A very common personal issue that has a large effect on employees in the workplace is financial issues. If someone at home is coping with mortgage payments that are overdue, or credit card debt, these issues are difficult to leave at home. 

HR departments spend a lot of time coping with financial issues of their employees.

 

Substance Abuse 

In the US, 9 percent of adults have some form of substance abuse issues. This can relate to drug or alcohol abuse. 

In a lot of cases, substance abuse leads to employees spending a lot of time off work. This means that HR have to spend a lot of their time focussing on these kinds of issues.

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Death 

Lots of people experience the death of a loved one or friend. When this happens, HR have to ensure that they are doing everything they can for this person. 

While most people return to work fairly soon after a death, the grief will continue for much longer than this.

 

Health Issues 

Health issues are a major personal issue that HR have to play a large part in. Lots of people have chronic illness, and this has to be taken into account in the workplace. These illnesses can range from cancers, diabetes and lots of other chronic conditions.

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Relationship Problems 

Relationship problems often affect people's ability to work. If someone is going through a divorce or a separation, it can be very difficult for them to function in the workplace. HR plays a role in helping their workers through this.

 

Bullying 

Workplace bullying is a very big part of the role of HR. It is very important for all employees to feel like they are worthy of respect in the workplace. Victims of bullying in the workplace can suffer from a lot of related problems and it can impact their ability to come to work. 

Gossip is another thing closely related to this. HR will have to help to deal with any gossip that occurs in the workplace.

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Role Of HR In Personal Issues 

When it comes to these personal issues that often affect people’s ability to succeed in the workplace, HR plays a very important role. 

 

Investigations

If you are experiencing bullying or harassment, you should speak to your HR department. They will be able to provide you with lots of help and support. If this is happening within the workplace, it is likely that HR will then investigate these problems. 

In some cases, this may lead to suspension or dismissal, and in other cases it may lead to warnings. 

 

Leave 

HR are also able to let you know whether you are eligible for any paid or unpaid leave due to medical problems, bereavement or divorce.

If you need to take time off work, each company will have their own policies regarding this. For instance, if you need to take time off to care for a sick loved one, then you should speak to your HR department to find out what support is available to you.

 

Support 

The main role of the HR department is to let employees know what they are entitled to. Providing support and working out the best course of action for employees who are experiencing personal issues is a very important aspect of the role of HR.

 

Ways To Cope With Personal Issues In The Workplace

Remain Calm

Looking after your own mental health is very important when you are coping with personal issues in the workplace. In order to do this, try reducing your anxiety by meditating or exercising. 

 

Lean On Resources At Work 

If you have spoken to your HR department, you are likely aware of the resources that they have available to help and support you. For instance, you may be able to receive counseling from your workplace if this is something that is offered to you by your workplace.

 

Change Your Work Arrangement 

Whether temporarily or permanently, you could have the option to adjust your work hours in order to free up some time to work through personal issues. If you are suffering from bullying in the workplace, you could try to make sure that your hours are different to the person who is bullying you.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Should I Share My Personal Issues In The Workplace?

There are lots of different ways to start a conversation about your personal problems in the workplace. The best way to do this is to approach the HR department and explain your situation. 

From there, you will be able to figure out how you can prevent these problems from impacting your work too much. You will also be able to explore the type of support that your workplace is able to provide for you.

Ensure that you only talk with people that you trust, and don’t be afraid to talk to your manager or supervisor, too. If people who manage you know about your problems, then they will be able to help you in lots of ways.

Final Thoughts 

If you are experiencing personal issues, you should always bring this to the attention of your HR department. They will be able to let you know what help the company has available for these things, and you will be able to get access to the support that you need. 

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